Exceptional Wine! - WineHeist.com
This week we are delighted to have secured another small allocation from the Heritage Reserve collection of wines from Schug Estate, one of the pioneers of the Carneros AVA. While Schug and others have shown that many grape varieties can succeed in Carneros, we always find that it is the Burgundian varieties, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, that perform best in this cool, foggy climate. And while Pinot tends to get a lot of attention, there really is something special about Carneros Chardonnay, particularly when grown in the vineyards to the Southwest of the town of Sonoma, where the Schug Estate is located. These Chardonnays seem to have a depth and an earthiness that is less common in other areas of California, and the 2007 Schug Heritage Reserve is a wonderful example of this.
The 2007 Schug Estate Heritage Reserve Chardonnay is a barrel selection representing the depth and complexity obtained by blending select clones from throughout the various microclimates of the Schug Estate vineyards. The result is a wonderful Chardonnay that beautifully shows the characters of both the California vineyards in which it was grown, and the Burgundian heritage of the varietal. Pale gold in color, the nose shows peach and citrus aromas, along with classic earthy and mushroom notes usually found in White Burgundy. The palate has pear, apple, straw, and a minerally, almost salty note. Layered and complex with good acid and plenty of body, this is a smooth, classy wine that does a wonderful job of straddling the line between Old and New World. This will please fans of California Chardonnay with its richness, but has plenty to offer for those who prefer French style Chardonnay as well. Don't miss this classic Chardonnay!
Appellation: 98% Carneros, 2% Sonoma Valley
Harvest Dates: September 6th through October 5th, 2007
Sugar at Harvest: 24.0 degrees Brix average
Fermentation: 100% barrel fermented and aged “sur lie” for an average of 7 months 15% of the blend underwent malo-lactic fermentation
Aging Cooperage: 41% in new French “Allier” oak barrels
Alcohol: 14.0% by volume
Acidity: TA = 0.75 g/100ml; pH = 3.34
Production: 413 cases (12 x 750ml); 4 cases (6 x 1.5 L)
Release Date: January 1st, 2009
All Wines
Violet black in color with aromas of rich fruity dark berries, honeycomb, vanilla, and hints of forest floor join together with bold flavors of black cherry, and spiced nut. Balanced oak, layered palette, leaving you with a enjoyable persistent finish.
Big & Jammy!
Aromas and robust flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, mocha, espresso and hints of black pepper. Incredibly balanced with a smooth mouthfeel and body against a backdrop of structured tannins. The wine unfolds with notes of clove and dried herbs, ending with a long rich finish.
Rich & Luxurious!
Beautiful ruby color and opens with aromas of bright red plum and raspberry, cassis, and a touch of mint. The tannins are soft yet structured, and complemented by vibrant acidity, with hints of clove and baking spice from the oak aging. The wine ends with a long, smooth finish and lingering intensity encouraging you to enjoy another juicy sip.
Rich & Tropical...
Notes of tropical and ripe stone fruits, with aromas of fig, golden apple and hints of butterscotch, integrated with the richer aromas of light caramel, truffle and toasted vanilla from the oak aging. The palate and texture is rich, full-bodied and creamy, while maintaining a balanced vibrancy and finish.
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