2008 Reserve Selection Chardonnay

This wine opens with fragrant aromas of honeysuckle and orange blossoms followed by lemon, lime and pear notes amid toasted almond and honey. A rich, full, mouth feel with balanced acidity and bright lemon, pear, lime and passion fruit flavors followed by a smooth vanilla and toasted oak finish.

The grapes for the Napa Valley Chardonnay come from our estate vineyards in Jameson Canyon and select Napa Valley growers. The estate vineyards are planted on rolling hills at the southern end of Napa Valley. The growing conditions here are very similar to Carneros, the neighboring appellation just west of the Napa River. Winds flow through Jameson Canyon, carrying in the cooling influence of the nearby Pacific Ocean, providing a long, cool growing season that enhances the intensity of the Chardonnay flavors.

Using no malolactic fermentation and moderate oak influence, our Napa Valley Chardonnay is made in a style that focuses on the inherent qualities of this varietal. To preserve the unique Chardonnay flavors and aromas of grapes grown in this region, this wine was whole cluster pressed and cold fermented in stainless steel tanks. We aged 40% of the Chardonnay for 72 days in new and one year old Nevers and Allier French oak barrels, selected for their tight grain that delicately restrains the oak flavors. This gives the wine a touch of oak and creamy vanilla flavors without overwhelming the natural fruit flavors.

A versatile wine that pairs well with quiche Lorraine, mushroom tart, roast chicken, grilled salmon or halibut, sautéed Petrale sole.