Vineyard
This Chardonnay is sourced from a single vineyard in the Oak Knoll AVA, a sub-appellation in the southern end of Napa Valley is ideally situated for growing Chardonnay. The warm days promote the ripeness and lush aromas and flavors in the grapes. The afternoon breezes from the San Pablo Bay and cool nights help preserve the natural acidity in the juice.
Winemaking
Hand-harvested, crushed and then the juice soaks on the skins for 6 hours prior to pressing, which helps extract important aroma components from the skins. 25% of this wine was fermented in new oak barrels, which contribute a minimal level of oak characteristics, and allows the natural fruit to shine through. The wine was then aged in the same barrels for 12 months prior to bottling.
Vintage: 2019
Harvest Date: September 2019
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay, Single Vineyard
Appellation: 100% Oak Knoll District, Napa Valley
Release Date: April 2021
Alcohol%: 14.2%
Production: 77 cases
91 Points, Wine Spectator
This is a big wine with luxurious texture. Deep red-purple with aromas of black currents, blackberry, plum, chocolate, earthy forest floor, licorice, graphite, and subtle floral notes of violet, spice and cracked pepper. The palate is full, structured and balanced with blackberry, currant, black cherry fruit with notes of earth, firm acid and silky tannins. Finishes big with blackberry fruit and peppery spice.
90 Points, Wine Enthusiast
Loaded with old-vine character in every sip. Combining 42% Carignane, 38% Mourvèdre and 20% Zinfandel, from vines over 130 years in age. Dark red in color with black cherry, cassis, pomegranate, plum, cocoa, and highlights of cranberry, black pepper, tar and earth. Velvety mouthfeel, great structure with black cherry, pomegranate, chocolate, tar and peppery spice. Satisfies the palate with a long spicy fruit driven finish.
