Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County, 2006
The truly distinctive flavors from the cool Northern and Western
extremes of Santa Barbara County come together in this bottle.
Here, our love of blending has resulted in a marriage of exceptional
fruit aromas with carefully balanced acidity, capturing the
best qualities of the area. Honeydew melon, Asian pear, orange
blossom, as well as citrus notes are highlighted in this appealingly
crisp white wine.

The grapes for our Santa Barbara County Chardonnay hail from two cool climate appellations within the County – the Bien Nacido and Goodchild vineyards in the Santa Maria Valley, and Rancho Santa Rosa in the Sta. Rita Hills. After being pressed and settled, the juice was barrel fermented in a mixture of new (37%) and older French oak barrels. The lees were stirred for four months, and the wine underwent a full malolactic fermentation. The Chardonnay aged nine months in barrel before being bottled on July 12, 2007 and released in September. 1,933 cases were produced.

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Optimum Storage Conditions: Constant temperature, 55-58° F, darkness
Aging Potential: To enjoy young fruit aromas, consume within 1-2 years of bottling date. For extended aging under ideal conditions, consume within 2-5 years of bottling date.

Vineyards:
Goodchild (59%), Bien Nacido (34%), Rancho Santa Rosa (7%)

Bottle analysis:
Alcohol 14.2%, RS 0.12%, pH 3.40, TA 0.62 g/100ml

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Winemaking and Tasting Notes for the 2005 vintage.

Winemaking and Tasting Notes for the 2004 vintage.

Winemaking and Tasting Notes for the 2003 vintage.