Vineyard
This Chardonnay is sourced from a single vineyard in the Oak Knoll AVA, a sub-appellation in the southern end of Napa Valley is ideally situated for growing Chardonnay. The warm days promote the ripeness and lush aromas and flavors in the grapes. The afternoon breezes from the San Pablo Bay and cool nights help preserve the natural acidity in the juice.
Winemaking
The Chardonnay grapes were hand-harvested and whole cluster pressed directly into both barrel in stainless steel tanks. Fermented on ambient yeasts, the barrel fermentation is a bit warmer, created a fuller mouthfeel. The stainless fermentation is a little cooler and preserves the primary fresh aromas. Blending these two fermentation techniques creates a wonderful balance, and the wine is then aged 12 months in neutral oak barrels.
Vintage: 2020
Harvest Date: August 26, 2020
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay, Single Vineyard
Appellation: 100% Oak Knoll District, Napa Valley
Release Date: June 2022
Alcohol%: 14.4%
Production: 80 cases
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
93 Points
Deep red hue and hints of violet teasing the senses with seductive aromas of dark fruits, wild berries, cocoa, baking spices, leather, and cigar box. Filled with saturated flavors of ripe blackberry, blueberry, cassis, cherry cola, ripe plum, chopped mint leaves, while the palate unfolds with rich tannin, juicy acidity, and flavors of cherry gastrique, berry coulis, herb mélange, and licorice.
