VINEYARDS:
The fruit for this wine comes from vineyards in the Carneros region owned by the Rombauer family and select growers including the Sangiacomo family, long-term grower partners who have farmed this land for three generations.
WINEGROWING:
2020 started with a mild spring, giving us an early start to the growing season and a harvest which started on the early side. Throughout the year, we used aerial photos produced using NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) technology to tailor sustainable farming practices specific to each vineyard block. We harvested our Chardonnay at night, preserving its bright acidity which developed over the season.
WINEMAKING:
The grapes were gently whole-cluster pressed while the fruit was still cool. The juice was pumped to tank to cold-settle overnight before it was racked to barrel for primary and malolactic fermentations. The lees were stirred every two weeks to give the wine rich flavors and a creamy texture.
TASTING NOTES:
On the nose, beautiful aromas of ripe yellow peach, meyer lemon, and chamomile mingle together with hints of clove and vanilla. The peach, lemon, and vanilla spices continue onto the palate which is rich and concentrated, the flavors blending seamlessly supported by a creamy round mouthfeel. The lush back palate is lifted by both sweet fruit flavors and balanced acidity, ending with a lingering finish that will leave you wanting another sip.
FOOD PAIRINGS:
Our favorite Joy of Cooking® pairings* for this wine include Tuna-Avocado Burgers, Lobster Rolls and Fettuccine with Salmon and Asparagus.
- COOPERAGE: 9 months in American and French oak barrels (1/3 new)
- ALCOHOL: 14.5%