January and February 2015 were the warmest on record, resulting in early budbreak. Cooler, wetter weather in spring months slowed development, however, leading to a challenging, extended bloom period. The resulting uneven fruit set translated to a small crop and smaller berries with very concentrated flavors. The exceptionally early budbreak led to an equally early harvest.

We whole-cluster press for phenolic delicacy. Native-yeast and full native malolactic fermentations take place in barrel, with sur lies bâtonnage. After aging 18 months in 20% new François Frères barrels, this Chardonnay was lightly fined and settled in tank before being bottled without filtration.

This is our second estate Chardonnay, from the heart of the Russian River Valley.  It has a complex and harmonious mouthfeel, balancing power & elegance.