2016 began with another very early bloom, leading to a very early harvest in Sonoma County; our first fruit arrived August 5. During maturation, summer temperatures were warm and steady, with fewer heat spikes than 2015. Three weeks of cool weather in August and September relaxed the pace of harvest, allowing for methodical picking decisions and perfectly developed fruit. Yields were relatively average – down from 2014 and up from 2015.

We press whole clusters for phenolic delicacy (low tannins). Native yeast and full native malolactic fermentations take place in barrel, with sur lies bâtonnage. After 20 months in 20% new Taransaud Beaune French oak barrels, this Chardonnay was bottled without filtration in June 2018.

Coming from special vineyard sites, our Chardonnays show great depth of flavor, length of finish, aromatic complexity, and a fine balance between richness and delicacy.  Typically, the climate is cool and the soil vigor low, producing graceful yet vibrant wines.  This is our fifth bottling from this unique vineyard.