2004 Chardonnay - Russian River Valley / Russian River Selection

GRAPE SOURCE
(25%) Aquarius Ranch, Middle Block, clone 4 – (16%) Westside Farms, clone UCD12 and Spring Mountain – (12%) Starr Ridge Vineyard, clones 95 and 96 – (11%) Orsi Vineyard, clone 5 – (8%) Black Emerald Vineyard, clone 4 – (7%) Allen Vineyards, clone 5 – (5%) Rochioli Vineyards, River Block – (12%) Cresta Ridge Vineyard, clones 95 & 76 – (4%) Bien Nacido Vineyard (Santa Barbara County), J Block, clone 4.

WINEMAKING
While Chardonnay from most of these vineyards may often be used in single vineyard designates, our tiniest vineyard sources are also used in the crafting of this Russian River Valley blend. This wine is an example of how individual vineyard nuances express themselves with one another, creating a more complex and intriguing wine. Though 100% barrel fermented in French oak, the new oak component was held to 30% and malolactic fermentation was encouraged in only 50% of the barrels. The result is a very crisp, fruit-focused offering, not dominated by excessive oak, buttery character or high alcohol.

WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Bursting with aromas of Golden Delicious apples, honeysuckle and pineapple. Rich, creamy flavors of lemon custard, butterscotch and hints of nutmeg in the mouth followed by citrus zest and notes of hazelnut. This generous offering will pair nicely with rich, creamy cheeses, salads with citrus fruits and sumptuous shellfish dishes.

Bottled: June 20, 2005
Winemaker: Gary Farrell
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Alcohol: 14.2%
Case Production: 3208
Acid/pH: 0.74/3.26
Released: March 1, 2006
Appellation: Russian River Valley

 

PAST VINTAGES
2003 Chardonnay - Russian River Valley