2003 Chardonnay

These grapes were Estate grown and hand harvested. Each lot was vinified separately and then master blended. This Chardonnay displays vivid aromas of ripe guava, apple, citrus, mineral and spice. The wine is richly textured with flavors of green apple, citrus zest and triple creme brie. A nice balance of acidity and richness culminate a long, rich finish.

2003 was a long growing season for the upper Arroyo Grande Valley, with warm days and cool nights - perfect for ripening Chardonnay to its maximum flavor and concentration. The grapes were hand picked from the sandy Thereza Vineyard.

The fruit was whole cluster pressed and the juice was chilled and racked to French oak barrels. It underwent 100% malolactic fermentation and was sur lie aged in 20% new French oak for 12 months.

Region/Origin: Rancho Arroyo Grande
Blend: 100% Zinfandel
Alcohol: 13.9%
Case production: 1,438 cases

Suggested Retail Price: $15

The Private Reserve Chardonnay is our debut release for Chardonnay. Thereza's Vineyard is planted in a valley on the coolest section of the 3,500 acre estate. This site contributes bright acid and mineral notes from our beds of fossilized limestone and shale.

2002 was a cool growing season for the upper Arroyo Grande Valley. The grapes were hand picked from the Thereza Vineyard. Picked at 24 degrees brix on September 24th and 25th, the yield was 3 tons per acre.

The fruit was whole cluster pressed to capture all of the complexity and character of our terroir. The juice was then chilled and racked to French oak barrels where it under went 100% malolactic fermentation. It was sur lie aged in 10% new French oak for 10 months before bottling.