Vintage: After 4 dry years, the 2017 harvest can be considered almost "normal". Record winter rains provided some real drought relief, but bud-break still came about 1 week earlier then usual. Warm spring weather allowed for good berry set and a slightly below average crop yield. Hot summer and autumn temperatures quickly brought the fruit to maturity. Severe wild fires near the end of harvest made this a memorable vintage. The wines of 2017 are intense, but elegant, with nice acidity and balance.
Vineyard: Chardonnay is located throughout the southern part of Truchard Vineyards. The vines range from 21 to 43 years olf and benefit from the various marine soils, gently sloped terrain, and cooler temperatures. The Carneros region is ideal for growing Chardonnay as it produces aromatic and world class wines with tropical fruit characteristics and a unique spicy element.
Winemaking: All the fruit was whole cluster pressed. This technique produces a full-bodied wine with delicate structure. Our Chardonnay is 100% barrel fermented in French oak (33% new) using various yeast strains. After fermentation, the wine remains in barrel on the lees (sur lie) for 10 months. A partial malolatic fermentation (30%) allows the wine to retain its natural acidity, while regular stirring of the lees (battonage) gives complexity and richness.
Harvest: September 11 to October 3rd, 2017. 24.4 brix. 3.30pH. 7.1 g/l TA Alcohol: 14.1% Release Date: February 1st, 2019
