2021 Chardonnay, Carneros

The nose is richly layered with scents of toasted oak, Meyer lemon, white peach and wet stone minerality. Medium weight and creamy textured on the palate, flavors of yellow apple, stone fruit, lemon meringue pie, and hints of 
sea spray abound, leading to a supple and refreshing finish. Big in its youth, this wine is enjoyable now and will reward those who can patiently cellar it away for a few years

This Chardonnay originates from the cool-climate region of Los Carneros, often referred to simply as Carneros, which means "Rams" in Spanish. Recognized as an American Viticultural Area (AVA), Carneros spans parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties, just north of San Pablo Bay. Its proximity to the bay provides cool fog and refreshing afternoon breezes, creating a moderate climate that distinguishes it from the warmer regions further north in Napa Valley. This cooler environment is ideal for cultivating cool-climate varietals like Chardonnay. The vineyard features a blend of renowned Chardonnay clones, including Dijon, Wente, and Robert Young.

The growing season started with a wet January and February, then nearly no rain for the remainder of the season. The dry weather resulted in early spring budbreak, followed by early flowering, bloom and fruit set. Calm spring 
and summer temperatures with no concerning heat spikes allowed for even veraison in July. Due in part to continued drought conditions the yields were naturally lower resulting in optimal ripening of intensely concentrated and 
very flavorful berries. Each lot was handpicked, gently whole cluster pressed, then racked, blended and aged 10 months in 100% French oak.