2021 Boekenoogen Chardonnay
Beginning in 1997, John Boekenoogen transformed his family’s historic ranch in the Santa Lucia Mountains into one of the region’s best-known estates. The high altitude Boekenoogen Vineyard is located on the northern end of the Santa Lucia Highlands, offering well-drained mountainside soils and exposure to cooling coastal air.
Hand sorted grapes were whole cluster pressed, preserving fruit flavors and natural acidity. The juice was barrel fermented with native yeast in 100% French oak (33% new), followed by nine months of barrel aging.
In the glass, the Boekenoogen Vineyard Chardonnay displays a beautiful light gold hue. On the nose, aromas of fresh pineapple are joined by lemon curd and baking spices. These elements are echoed on the palate by orchard fruits and subtle butterscotch, with 90% malolactic fermentation adding a rounded mouthfeel to the wine’s tropical fruit and bright acidity.