Chardonnay | Nelson Vineyard

Santa Cruz Mountains, California

The 2014 growing season started several weeks earlier than normal; harvest began 2-3 weeks ahead of schedule. Situated on the coastal side of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the cool maritime breezes moderate the effect of the abundant sunshine. The sparse soils beneath the vines consist of only a couple of feet of topsoil, with ancient marine uplift soils supplying the base rock beneath the vines. The vineyard blocks are located on south to southwest facing slopes planted to four clones; two clones of Chardonnay.

Our Nelson Vineyard, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains encompasses nine (9) choice acres of the 162 acre vineyard, at approximately 1700ft of elevation. This vineyard was planted in 1999 at 1,700 feet elevation in ancient marine sedimentary soil.

Light lemon yellow color in the glass. Exuberant perfume of lemon cream, tropical fruits, buttery brioche, caramel and floral bouquet. Crisp, vivid and bright on the palate, with fruit flavors of lemon and pineapple and a hint of salinity. Harmonious, clean and fresh, with plenty of fruit goodness, and a vibrant disposition.

Fruit arrives in the winery via refrigerated trucks. Fruit was pressed and set­tled into tank for 24 hours before adding directly into French Oak barrels. Native Barrel Fermentation, No Additions. Aged Sur Lie with no racking until bottling. Clones were fermented together.