Bright sunshine and an uncannily predictable
ocean breeze follow, allowing the grapes
to fully ripen and still retain a lively
acidity. Sta. Rita Hills is one of the
coolest winegrowing regions in California,
and yet because of the southern latitude,
has the longest growing season of any
appellation. It is an ideal location for
world-class Chardonnay.
The 2005 vintage produced grapes of the
highest quality and bountiful quantity.
The Chardonnay was harvested in October,
and delivered to the winery in the early
hours of the morning, where winemaker
Norm Yost whole cluster pressed the grapes
to a stainless steel tank for settling.
After being racked off its gross lees
and inoculated with yeast to begin fermentation
in tank, the wine was placed into French
oak barrels, 20% of which were new, to
complete fermentation and begin the aging
process. While in barrel, the 2005 Chardonnay
underwent a partial malolactic fermentation
to add a creamy textural component to
the wine.
The pale straw color of the 2005 barrel
fermented Chardonnay foretells of the
elegant nature of this wine. Aromas of
honeysuckle and lemon blossom mingle with
a hint of seashore minerality that is
characteristic of the vineyard and the
area. A first sip is rewarded with a silken
texture and an abundance of classic flavors;
clove, acacia, pear, a hint of citrus
and Fuji apples. The notes of minerality
are persistent on the palate, interlaced
with spice and sweet garden herbs. A beautifully
balanced, medium bodied wine with bright
acidity and a lingering finish, the wine
is a classic and elegant rendition of
a Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay.
The 2005 Chardonnay pairs extremely well
with pork or chicken dishes with cream
sauces, and with fresh fruit and mild
cheeses. It is also delightful on its
own as an aperitif! Serve just slightly
chilled for maximum enjoyment.
Click here
for a printable version of these notes.
|