2021 Chardonnay

COMPOSITION: 100% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Napa Valley
TA: 5.5 g/L
pH: 3.5
ALCOHOL: 13.9%
AGING: 8 months Neutral French Oak barrels
PRODUCTION: 275 cases
VINTAGE NOTES:
The 2021 growing season was dry, marked by hot, dry conditions. Coming off of a rainy December 2020, growers were hopeful the rains would continue through the first quarter of 2021, but we'd soon learn there was no more rain coming; 2021 would be the 2nd year of drought conditions in Napa Valley. Budbreak began in mid-March, as expected, and with it came unseasonably warm spring temperatures. Summer came on gradually, and temperatures remained steady and warm through June. July and August were cooler than usual, and moderate fall temperatures followed. The moderate fall temperatures allowed the fruit mature slowly, accumulating flavor complexity with gradual increases in sugar levels. Harvest came in mid-September. Yields were low and berries were small -- an expression of the dry year.
PRODUCTION NOTES:
Harvest began in late-September before daybreak to ensure grapes remained cool. Grapes were delivered to the winery, destemmed, pressed and pumped into a stainless-steel tank to begin a 12-day fermentation. During fermentation temperatures and sugars are checked twice a day, and we slowly raise the temperature from the initial 55 degrees to 75. After primary fermentation wine is barreled down into neutral French Oak barrels to age for 8 months before bottling.
TASTING NOTES:
The 2021 chardonnay opens with aromas of tropical fruit, lemon and pear. On the palate green apple, pear, light floral notes. This wine has medium body and medium acidity. Best served at cellar temperature.
FOOD PAIRNINGS:
Pairs well with sweet potatoes and foods that are caramelized from roasting or grilling. Quite delicious with light pasta dishes and seafood.
Retail Price: $36.00
Case Price (12 bottles): $432.00
Club Member Price: $30.60
Club Member Case Price (12 bottles): $367.20
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