2023 Chardonnay

Tasting Notes

This wine combines the best of Chardonnay's characteristics when grown in the mountains, showing both richness and freshness that exist in tension and harmony. A wine that has long been sought after for its balance, the 2023 Chardonnay holds true to this tradition with a vibrant nose filled with tropical fruit and Myer lemon, framed by a backdrop of toasty brioche and flint. On the palate the wine shows a perfect combination of both richness and freshness, with ample acidity tying it all together for a long finish.

Vineyard Notes

We have 6 different blocks of Chardonnay ranging in Elevation from 2,400ft to 2,700ft on our Estate vineyards. Each plot is planted in soil of differing depths, and with a different aspect. We also have a combination of head trained and cordon trained vines, with 4 different clones, chosen to best fit the conditions of the individual block.

The majority of these block are facing North West, on gentle slope comprised of finely decomposed volcanic debris. The vines receive the most sun during the mornings, and are protected from warm evening heat, allowing for ample ripening while preserving freshness and vibrancy.

Winemaker Notes

Growing premium mountain fruit is the keystone to the production of our unique Chardonnay. The vineyards are planted at varying elevations and aspects to capture an array of flavors and complexities.

Our Chardonnay is 50% barrel fermented, 50% stainless steel fermented. The cool fermentations take place over 4 weeks. The barrel component receives lees stirring weekly through ML, and once per month after, adding texture to the final blend. 50% of the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation, while the remainder does not to preserve freshness and vibrancy. Half the wine is aged in stainless steel, and half in neutral French, Hungarian, and Slovenian oak hogsheads.

Awards

92pts, James Suckling