2004 Chardonnay - Russian River Valley/Rochioli-Allen Vineyards

GRAPE SOURCE
* Rochioli Vineyard (46%); clone 5 and Dijon clone 76 planted in the early 1990’s in a block adjacent to the Russian River.
* Allen Vineyard (54%); a variety of Dijon clones used by Joe Rochioli to plant this contiguous property to the south. Each clone and rootstock was carefully selected for their compatibility to soil-type, geography and orientation to the sun.

WINEMAKING
Early morning hand harvesting and hand sorting at the winery prior to whole-cluster pressing assured the proper respect was paid to this fine fruit. After natural settling of grape solids, the clean juice was fermented in a combination of new and slightly used French oak barrels. Multiple yeasts were selected to enhance additional elements of flavor and complexity. Malolactic fermentation was encouraged and aging in the barrel occurred with the lees present, to soften natural acidity and add roundness and complexity to the wine. The structure building Rochioli fruit marries perfectly with the sensual fruit from the Allen blocks to create this luscious, perfectly-balanced chardonnay.

WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Fresh aromas of ripe golden delicious apples, lemon zest and hints of almond and butterscotch fill the glass. This is a luxurious, complete wine with generous fruit and a rich mouth feel. While full and supple, the crisp refreshing balance provides a mouth-watering finish. Enjoy now or age for several more years.

Bottled: June 2005
Winemaker: Gary Farrell
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Alcohol: 14.4%
Case Production: 311
Acid/pH: 0.68/3.32
Released: November 2006
Appellation: Russian River Valley

PAST VINTAGES
2003 Chardonnay - Russian River Valley / Rochioli-Allen Vineyards
2002 Chardonnay - Russian River Valley / Rochioli-Allen Vineyards