2015 Starmont Chardonnay Carneros

Winemaking

The fruit was handpicked, as well as state-of-the-art machine harvested, then carefully sorted and whole-cluster pressed to preserve freshness. Traditional methods are used to add richness and complexity—aging sur lies for 18 months in 25% new French oak to add richness; malolactic fermentation to balance the wine’s acidity—while aiming to retain the focus on the unique Chardonnay fruit expression of Carneros—bright citrus and apple, along with subtle tropical fruit notes. Modest use of French oak helps to enhance the wine’s expression of region, while not playing too dominant a role in the overall wine. Combination of traditional barrel fermentation (58% of the blend) and stainless steel tank fermentation (42% of the blend). This wine will gain complexity for three years from vintage.

Tasting Notes

Starmont Chardonnay is crafted to enjoy with food or simply by the glass. The 2015 is pale gold in color with aromas of bright citrus, apple and vanilla. The wine’s soft entry leads to a mid-palate with medium body and acidity and plenty of volume. Flavors of apple and pear, along with citrus, fresh mineral and subtle oak notes lead to a refreshing, medium length finish.