2020 Merryvale Chardonnay Carneros-Napa Valley

Description

100% Chardonnay

Winemaking

The fruit for this Chardonnay was grown primarily on our Stanly Ranch Estate Vineyard in Carneros blended with select lots from the Hyde and Poe Vineyards. These vineyards’ proximity to the San Pablo Bay keeps them at a cool temperature and brings cool climate characteristics to the wine, most notably a crisp freshness. Each vineyard was picked and pressed separately. After pressing, the juices were allowed to settle naturally overnight and were then put into French oak barrels. Fermentation started naturally and lasted for six months. Native malolactic fermentation occurred during this time as well. The wine spent 12 months in 30% new French oak barrels. One month prior to bottling, each lot of wine was racked and then blended to prepare for bottling.

Tasting Notes

The goal for this wine is finesse and complexity which is enhanced by using long, slow, native fermentations. From the Napa side of Carneros, this Chardonnay is a beautiful golden color. The nose opens up with roasted almonds and evolves to floral and fruity notes including bergamot, pineapple, ripe peaches and citrus. In the mouth, the entry is very round and fresh with an abundance of fruit flavors. The acidity is very soft, and guided by the minerality, all supporting a lingering finish.