2008 Monterey Chardonnay

The Monterey appellation offers a range of soil (sandy loam, decomposed granite, sandstone, shale and limestone) and climate combinations that rivals the diversity of any California wine region. Chilled air masses gush off the deep waters of Monterey Bay each afternoon engender an extensive maritime layer that provides relief to warm inland vineyards. Grapes fully ripen nder perpetual sunny skies, but retain optimum acidity with the help of cool overnight temperatures and intermittent patterns of morning fog.

Twelve percent of the fruit was sourced from the east-facing Santa Lucia Highlands, an area that has been frequently likened to Burgundy’s Côte d’Or. The remainder of the grapes was harvested from other cool sections of this large coastal appellation.

Tasting Notes

Aromas of citrus, pineapple, almond and white peach are followed by flavors ripe stone fruit, apple, melon, vanilla, minerals and a hint of toasted oak. Medium weight with bright acidity and a slightly coating mouthfeel. It finishes clean and lively with spicy tropical notes.

Winemaking

Hand harvested October 4 – 12, 2008 in the early morning cool

Whole-cluster pressed at low pressure to maximize fruitiness and minimize astringency

Fermentation: 38% in barrel to add complexity, 62% in tank to enhance fruit intensity

Both portions were stirred twice each month to develop rich textures

88% malolactic fermentation to soften acidity

The barrel fraction was aged for 8 mos in Fr oak bbls (10% new) to add depth and balance

Vineyards

California AVA

Technical Data

Varietal Content

100% Chardonnay

Finished Alcohol

14.2%

Total Acidity

0.71mg per 100ml
pH: 3.49

Release Date

September 2009

Downloads

2008 Monterey Chardonnay Product Sheet
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