2020 Ashley's Chardonnay

Appellation

Sta. Rita Hills

Varietal

Chardonnay

Wine Spectator

Wine Enthusiast

Jeb Dunnuck

Vinous

Vineyard Sources

100% Ashley's Vineyard (Blocks G, H & I) located in the Sta. Rita Hills appellation

Barrel Aging

100% barrel fermented and aged for 8 months in 31% new French oak

Cooperage

Mercurey, Francois Freres, Atelier Centre

Technical Data

Composition

100% Chardonnay

Alcohol %

13.1

Acidity

0.660 g/100mL

3.44

Harvest Brix

20.9-23.0

Harvest Date

9/25-10/2/20

Production

1372 cases

Description

Named after Fess' daughter, Ashley, this chardonnay represents the best of the acclaimed Sta. Rita Hills growing region. The majority of the grapes come from a vineyard developed by the Parker family in 1996 situated only 12 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The hillside sites, sandy soils, persistent ocean breezes and fog make for a cold growing environment; the perfect scenario for Chardonnay & Pinot Noir.

This wine shows bright apple, pear and citrus fruit flavors complemented by attractive mineral notes with vanilla and toasty oak notes from French oak aging. Enjoy!

Wine Critic Reviews

"Tart and ashy aromas of yellow apple, lemon peel and grapefruit zest make for a racy nose on this bottling. There's a great textural edge to the palate, where lemon pith and crisp acidity cuts through broad nectarine and salty almond flavors." ~ Wine Enthusiast "Shows generous candied orange peel, pear, Fuji apple and pineapple notes, but there's also an appealing thread of sea salt minerality. Reveals light, fresh acidity that highlights the flavors and creates appealing tension and vibrancy on the finish. Drink now." ~ Wine Spectator "...deep, potent wine built on real structural intensity. Readers will find an especially savory, mineral style of Chardonnay. Sage, mint, chamomile, crushed rocks and dried flowers open over time, while the fruit is more in the background." ~ Antonio Galloni's Vinous "...offering a more floral, elegant style as well as pretty peach and citrus fruits, medium-bodied richness, terrific balance, and a great finish..." ~ Jeb Dunnuck