Production Notes
Varietal Content: 100% Chardonnay; Cooperage: 100% Barrel Fermentation, 100% French Oak, 35% New Oak, 65% Second Vintage
Winemaker Notes
In 2010, the mid-valley location of our Split Rail Vineyard yielded a wine that balances good weight and richness with elegance and refreshing acidity. Aromas and flavors of Bosc pear and Fuji apple are intertwined with more delicate terroir-inspired elements of white flowers and wet stone that add refinement to this lovely Chardonnay.
Production
Though the beginning of the growing season was cold and wet, we had a successful bloom and set. Because the cool weather continued into summer, we applied extensive canopy management and vineyard floor cultivation, with little-to-no irrigation. After heat spikes in late August and early September, the end of the season was nice and temperate, and we were able to harvest ripe, high-quality fruit before any rain events. Despite its challenges, 2010 proved excellent for cool-climate winegrowing, delivering elegant wines with depth of flavor and superb balance at relatively low Brix.