2023 Ashley's Chardonnay

Appellation

Sta. Rita Hills

Varietal

Chardonnay

Wine Spectator

James Suckling

Decanter

Vineyard Sources

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

Barrel Aging

100% barrel fermented and aged for 7 months in 37% new French oak

Cooperage

Mercurey, Berthomieu, Sirugue, D’Aquitaine

Technical Data

Composition

100% Chardonnay

Alcohol %

14.2

Acidity

0.614 g/100mL

3.65

Harvest Brix

25.0-26.1

Harvest Date

11/1 - 11/6/23

Production

1456 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

"A grand, traditional California version of reserve-style chardonnay. This boasts plenty of butter, toast and poached fruit flavors on a full body and a nicely viscous texture that leads to a lingering finish." ~ James Suckling "Ripe fruit flavors of crisp Pink Lady apple and lemon rind add a zesty bite to the finish. A subtle balance of density, supple fruit, and toasted oak works in tandem with a poignant backbone of acidity, suggesting the potential for harmonious evolution over the next few years." ~ Decanter "There's an appealing firmness to the juicy notes of pear, melon and citrus, with a touch of toasted, salted almond and apple skin. There's plenty of freshness to admire, along with a touch of spices and floral grace notes." ~ Wine Spectator