Winemaker Notes
This expressive Chardonnay displays aromas of white peach, apricot and beeswax, underscored by subtle flint and vanilla. The light, refreshing palate offers well-integrated phenolics and a broad texture, giving way to a smooth, satisfying finish with hints of orchard fruit and minerality.
Production
The 2023 growing season began with a cool, wet winter followed by a cool-to-moderate spring. This delayed budbreak and bloom in many regions, especially the Green Valley, Petaluma Gap and Carneros AVA’s, with some vineyards two-to-four weeks behind average. We harvested our first Russian River Valley Pinot Noir on September 14th and slowly progressed from north to south, harvesting Pinot Noir and some Chardonnay’s in early October. After a miraculous series of short heat waves that pushed the grapes to ripeness, we began harvesting Chardonnay in earnest and concluded harvest on October 27th. Viticultural practices were key to success in 2023, including crop adjustments and leafing to increase sun exposure and ensure ideal ripeness. Our diligence paid off, with red wines showcasing concentrated flavors, excellent textures and deep hues and whites presenting delicate, fresh aromatics and vibrant acidity.