Nose
Our Napa Valley Barrel Fermented Chardonnay opens
with welcoming aromas of crème brulee, allspice and
jasmine.
Palate
On the palate, a touch of minerality is
accompanied by notes of Granny Smith apple, apricot and
lychee nut.
Growing Conditions
The grapes for this Napa Valley Chardonnay come from
our estate vineyards in Jameson Canyon and select Napa
Valley growers on Atlas Peak. The growing conditions on
the hilly vineyards of both locations are very similar to
Carneros. Winds flow through Jameson Canyon, carrying
in the cooling influence of the nearby Pacific Ocean and
providing a long, cool growing season that enhances the
intensity of the Chardonnay flavors.
The 2014 vintage in Napa Valley was one of the earliest
harvested vintages in years. A warm spring led to early bud
break and created the perfect environment for flowering
and fruit set. With warm days and cool nights, our team
was able to maintain ideal acid levels with optimum, bright
fruit flavors.
Winemaking
80% new French oak and
11 months of sur-lie aging, our Napa Valley Chardonnay
is made in a style that focuses on the inherent qualities of
this varietal. A mix of the Dijon clone for more body and
fruit complexity and Italian clones known for their
minerality, this wine was whole cluster pressed and
fermented in French oak barrels before being bottled.
Aging
100% barrel fermented, 80%
new oak for 11 months
Food Pairing
A long, lingering finish makes this wine a
perfect pairing for seafood pasta with cream sauce or a
soft, mild cheese.
