Production Notes
Varietal Content: 100% Chardonnay; Cooperage: 90% Barrel Fermentation, 100% French Oak, 35% New Oak, 65% Second Vintage
Winemaker Notes
Heintz’s older Chardonnay vines have yielded a wine that expresses everything we like about this vineyard—in particular, its distinctive balance between a rich, creamy texture and potent acidity. The aromas echo this contrast with bright, lifted citrus notes underscored by layers of caramel, apple pie, pear and baking spices. On the palate this Chardonnay displays beautiful weight and intensity framed by notable acidity.
Production
The 2009 growing season offered picture-perfect growing conditions on the Sonoma Coast. A relatively dry winter was followed by a dry spring, which naturally limited canopy growth and yields. Summer offered consistently even temperatures with a mix of cool, foggy mornings and afternoon sunshine. A moderate heat event in mid-September brought sustained temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s for the better part of two weeks. This timely heat allowed the fruit to develop pure, focused flavors with classic Sonoma Coast acidity.