2018 Sierra Madre Chardonnay

Appellation

Santa Maria Valley

Varietal

Chardonnay

Wine Enthusiast

Jeb Dunnuck

Vinous

Vineyard Sources

100% Sierra Madre Vineyard (Block 208) located in the Santa Maria Valley

Barrel Aging

100% barrel fermented and aged for 8 months in 38% new French oak

Cooperage

Berthomieu, Sirugue

Technical Data

Composition

100% Chardonnay

Alcohol %

14.1

Acidity

0.576 g/100mL

3.4

Harvest Brix

23.5

Harvest Date

10/11/18

Production

392 cases

Description

Sierra Madre Vineyard experiences ample fog and cool breezes funneled directly from the Pacific coastline which makes for very slow ripening and well developed flavors with great depth.

Barrel fermentation and subsequent sur lie aging give this wine a rich and creamy texture. The extended ripening process delivers aromas of a ripe asian pear, wet stone and citrus that are followed by flavors of creamy vanilla, apple pie and pear. Best when served lightly chilled, this wine is smooth, luscious and eminently drinkable. Enjoy!

Wine Critic Reviews

"...Plenty of honeyed orchard fruits, brioche, and spicy notes emerge from this beauty, which is a richer, medium to full-bodied effort that stays balanced and lively." ~ Jeb Dunnuck "...a superb wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Ripe apricot, tangerine oil and passionfruit give the 2018 striking layers of exoticism to play off its racy contours and sumptuous feel." ~ Antonio Galloni's Vinous "Chalk and crushed seashell aromas met with sea salt and lemon on the alluring nose of this bottling. The palate is very cohesive, combining tangerine and apricot elements with a vibrantly acid-driven structure." ~ Wine Enthusiast