Sonoma County Chardonnay 2024
Trade Tools
America / Sonoma County
The fruit for Sonoma County Chardonnay is sourced from estate vineyards in Sonoma and Russian River Valley, as well as from growers in other premier appellations, including Carneros and Alexander Valley. Each vineyard contributes distinctive and individual qualities to the finished wine. To preserve delicate flavors, aromas and acidity, the grapes are picked at night and in early morning so fruit arrives cold at the winery. Grapes are pressed, then fermented in separate lots in French oak barrels. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and ages for eight months. During aging, bâtonage (stirring the lees by hand) is performed to achieve complexity and rich mouthfeel.
Harvest Note
The 2024 growing season started off wet with abundant rains revitalizing the soil. Cooler temperatures extended ripening and allowed the grapes time to develop deep color, varietal intensity and balanced acidity. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel were picked in late August through early September, while the Bordeaux varieties were harvested in September concluding with a final pick of Cabernet Sauvignon in mid-October.
Tasting Note
This elegant Chardonnay brings refreshing notes of fresh pear, crisp apple and a hint of butterscotch on the nose. Rich flavors of orange blossom honey, apple galette, roasted pear and white peach emerge on the mid-palate and complement the touch of minerality on the finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Sonoma County
ABV: 14.30%
AGING: French Oak, 20% New
Unique Selling Points
- A classic example of Sonoma County Chardonnay
- Select fruit from the finest regions: Sonoma, Carneros, Alexander Valley and Russian River Valley
- Versatile pairing with chicken, crab or cream-sauce dishes
"I love a bright, crisp Chardonnay with flavors of apples and pears - a classic expression of Sonoma County. Perfect on a summer afternoon or paired with a meal."
Katie Madigan, Winemaker
About the Grape
Chardonnay
Though it has a distinctive profile, Chardonnay reflects other factors such as soil composition and vinification technique. Chardonnay is a reliable, hardy and prolific vine whose only real vulnerabilities are frost and uneven development of fruit.
