With each vintage of Highland Chardonnay we showcase the unique attributes of our Double L Vineyard and the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. The 2007 cuvee includes 40% fruit from the Double L and the balance from outstanding neighboring estates in the SLH, including Rosella’s and McIntyre. The Double L Vineyard has been “Certified Organic” since 2002 but has been conscientiously farmed in this method since the original plantings in 1997.
Although ‘07 was typically cool and windy, this vintage shows a lot of intensity due to high stress on the vines from the dry winter preceding a cold, wet spring. Summer and fall were uneventful, resulting in normal hang-time and gentle ripening.
The grapes are hand picked and sorted in the vineyard. Whole cluster pressing preserves the fruit flavors and natural acidity. We barrel ferment the must in new French oak (35%) and a combination of one & two year old and neutral barrels. Partial malo-lactic fermentation insures the wine will have a creamy richness balanced by bright fruit acidity.
This focused, elegant Chardonnay’s aromas showcase tropical fruit, ripe pear, green apple, and nutmeats. On the palate, the rich fruit flavors are complemented by a light touch of butterscotch and refreshing minerality and bright acidity. Incredibly food-friendly, the 2007 Highlands Chardonnay is a perfect match with cream-sauced pastas, roast chicken and pork, and seafood...
Reviews
88, Connoisseurs' Guide, April 2009
Wine of the Week, Fredric Koeppel, March 24, 2009
