“La Nue” Chardonnay
Dry Creek Valley

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Varietal Composition:  100% Chardonnay

The Vineyard:  Our estate vineyard lies in the western hillsides above the upper reach of the Dry Creek Valley.  Benchland and mountain-top soils combine with vigor-limiting rootstock and limited irrigation to yield intense fruit flavors from smaller berries.  This “La Nue” is made with a Dijon Chardonnay clone 76 from our mountain-top block.

Vintage:  Moderate temperatures with no appreciable rainfall throughout the ripening season allowed the grapes to fully develop exceptionally concentrated flavors.

Harvest:        Sept 15th, 2017        Average brix:  24.4        pH:  3.44        TA:  0.62 g/100ml

Fermentation:  The grapes were picked in the cool mornings and immediately pressed.  After settling, the clear juice was racked into stainless tank and fermented with native yeast at a cool temperature to retain fresh fruit flavors.  100% malo-lactic fermentation adds roundness to the mouthfeel.

Cooperage / Aging:  The wine was aged for 7 months in stainless steel tank.

Sensory Notes:

        Color:  Pale straw

        Aromas:  Fresh apricots, wildflowers

        Palate:  Bright acidity, fresh apricot and floral flavors, long rich fruit finish

Bottling Date:  April 19, 2018                              Cases Produced:  192

Final Technical Info:        pH:  3.53        TA:  0.50 g/100ml        Alc:  13.9%