Nose
Floral aromas of pineapple, honeysuckle, and jasmine, with highlights
of brioche and vanilla.
Palate
The mouth is crisp, with clean flavors of fresh pear, honeydew
melon, and lychee. Bright acidity provides a lengthy finish of citrus, mineral, and spice.
Growing Conditions
The 2018 vintage will be remembered as nearly perfect. A cold winter with
average rainfall made for a late bud-break. Ideal spring weather allowed for a heavy
set. Mild conditions throughout summer and fall allowed the large crop to slowly ripen
and develop maximum flavor. The wines of 2018 are powerful but elegant; with firm
acidity and beautiful balance. This could be the vintage of the decade!
Harvest
This white varietal has been traditionally associated with the Northern
Rhône, where it is blended with Marsanne to make white Hermitage wines. In 1998,
three acres of Roussanne were planted on the southern end of the Truchard Estate
Vineyard. Growing in soils composed of volcanic rock and ash, the vines benefit from
the gently sloped terrain and cooler Carneros temperatures. Roussanne is a challenging
grape in both the vineyard and winery. However, when done correctly it can produce
an aromatic and delicate wine with the structure and finesse to age.
Winemaking
All of the fruit was whole cluster pressed and fermented in French oak
barrels (20%) new. After fermentation the wine remains in barrel on the lees (sur lie)
for 6 months. A partial malolactic fermentation (30% complete) allows the wine to
retain its natural acidity, while regular stirring of the lees (battonage) gives added
complexity and richness. This wine was bottled in April 2019.
