2007 South Coast Reserve Chardonnay

The grapes for this wine were harvested from Ramirez and Huis Vineyards. These two vineyards are highly regarded for their Chardonnay and are approximately 15 years old. The Chardonnay clones planted in these two vineyards are 04, FPS 79, and Wente. Much like our Sans Chêne, the use of these different clonal selections gives a wonderful layered nuance of fruit characters. This Chardonnay was fermented and aged exclusively in a blend of European oak that was selected from forests in France, Hungary, Russia, and Germany. The oak adds a beautiful note of toasty vanilla and spice to the ever present apple and tropical fruit aromas. Approximately 12% of this wine underwent malo-lactic fermentation, which adds mouth-feel and a delicate buttery bouquet. The style of this wine is balanced oak and fruit, so that both components are in singular harmony, each accentuating the other. This wine will continue to grow in complexity as it ages, and has the capacity to go for several years in the bottle. Our Reserve Chardonnay pairs with rich sauces and seafood or fowl, as well as being the perfect aperitif.