TA: 5 g/l
pH: 3.6
Brix at harvest: 24.2
Harvest date: 9/14/2021
Fermentation and aging: Gently used American Oak Barrels
Bottled: 9/2022
Winemaker’s Notes:
“The Chardonnay that comes from the West end of the Livermore Valley possesses a unique focus of character within the appellation. While being in a warmer climate, the west end is separated from the bay by a double, low lying ridge line and warms the most slowly during the growing season. The sloping, rolling hills of the Kalthoff common provide small microclimates that are ideal for drainage and retaining the cool air that prolongs the growing season.
This vineyard shows great potential for producing well structured, complex Chardonnays. The growing season was a stellar one and this Chardonnay is no exception to the vintage. Grape vines are like people, they do their best work when a little stressed. This vintage is my favorite in recent memory.”
Dane Stark, winemaker
Tasting Notes:
This vintage has opening notes of butter, lemon, fruit and honey suckle.
It has a lovely, golden yellow, straw color.
The palate entry is of floral components with ripe fruit in the California style and a medium soft and mouthwatering mid palate with crisp acidity. The honey and butter from the barrel aging and secondary fermentation are present yet delicate.
There is citrus, honey dew and apricot in the finish with lingering fruit and a subtle kiss of American Oak.
