BEHIND THE NUMBERS:
Chardonnay vine selection 4, which originated in Napa Valley, is exceptional because it offers an unparalleled range of flavors. These flavors vary, according to location, from typical Chardonnay flavors of green apple and citrus to tropical fruit such as pineapple, lychee and mango – which distinguish Chardonnay #4 from variations grown in France.
Selection 4 does especially well in our vineyard block 46. Hence, the designation “446” on Noble Vines Chardonnay label. Grown in the San Bernabe sub-appellation of Monterey, one of the coolest wine regions in California, the grapes are crushed at our winery right in our vineyard. Building a winery so close to the grapes underscores Noble Vines’ commitment to preserve the superior qualities produced by this highly esteemed vine selection. – Charlie Hossom, Vine Grower, Noble Vines
WINEMAKING:
To preserve Chardonnay 446’s balance of bright acidity and lush tropical flavors it is best to crush the grapes immediately after picking – which we can do because our winery is right in our vineyard. This is a luxury most often reserved for estate wines with luxury prices. 446 is a San Bernabe wine all the way; we harvested a little riper than others because we can run the grapes into our cool winery-in-the-vineyard so swiftly. Winemaker James Ewart knows these grapes well: he has walked the vineyard and made wine here for the better part of two decades. James gently pressed the fruit, then fermented part of the juice in stainless steel and part in oak barrels, according to each lot’s acidity level. After fermentation, a portion of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation for added body and complexity.
TASTING NOTES:
446 Chardonnay showcases vibrant aromas of ripe peach, citrus, honey and a touch of vanilla, wrapped around juicy flavors of tropical fruits, honeydew melon and lemon zest, and framed by slight hints of butter and spice on the finish. Medium-bodied with a creamy mid-palate, this wine can be enjoyed on its own or with soft cheeses, roast fowl or pasta or salads.
Alcohol: 14.5%
Total Acid: 0.56 g/100ml
Final pH: 3.44