93 Points - 2020 The International Wine and Spirit Competition
Opens up with aromas of fresh lemon and orange followed by subtle notes of lemon zest and a touch of marzipan. These notes follow onto the palate, with balanced acidity carrying through from the first sip to the last giving the wine great freshness and minerality. Delicious now, or perfect for aging in your cellar. Enjoy with herb-crusted pork ribs, grilled chicken Caesar salad, poached salmon and more.
Vintage: There was high rain fall at the beginning of the season, a mild winter, and then finally transitioned into a beautiful spring. There was an early bud break and flowering, followed by sunny days and high temperatures through June and August.
Vineyard: This Chardonnay thrives American Canyon and Carneros vineyards in the southern tip of Napa Valley, near San Pablo Bay, which spills into the San Francisco Bay. The cool maritime breezes and morning fog allow the grapes to slowly ripen to develop complex flavors while maintaining a pleasing natural acidity that is impossible to achieve in warmer areas. Farmed all naturally, without artificial pesticides or herbicides, and they are certified organic.
Alcohol: 14.1%
Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Appellation: Napa Valley Estate
Harvest date: Aug. 18 - Sept. 14, 2017
Sugar: 23.1 Brix (average)
Fermentation: indigenous yeast
Total acid: 7.2 g/L
pH: 3.4
Aging: Fermented and aged 10 months
Type of oak: French oak; 40% new, 60% neutral
Bottling date: February 2019
Release date: June 2020
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
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