Monticello

Our 2020 Chardonnay was harvested in 4 separate lots over 3 days from our Monticello Estate. The fruit was hand-picked and cluster sorted prior to being whole cluster pressed. 2020 was a very consistent growing season, and wonderful for our earlier ripening varietals. We harvested at ideal ripeness, with brix ranging from 22.8 to 23.8. We fermented 24 unique micro-batches in oak barrels, stainless steel and concrete tanks, then blended everything back together in a magnificently layered representation of our vineyard. 

This wine has ripe berry fruit and spice aromas, followed by dark cherry, mocha and coffee tones on the nose. On the palate the wine has a powerful and expansive entry. I find black cherry, blackberry, and coffee all layered with some very nice toasted nut tones. The wine is well balanced and elegant. The tannins are structured and provide great framework for aging gracefully. This wine is best enjoyed from a decanter, 30-45 minutes after opening.

I find enticing aromas of cherry, black currant, anise nicely framed by a lightly sweet and fragrant vanillin oak. On the palate, the flavors follow through consistently with the aromas, and the wine is framed very nicely with moderate tannins that extend through to a lengthy finish.

I find vibrant midnight aromas of blackberry, cassis, hints of anise with undercurrents of toasted oak and vanilla. On the palate, the wine is rich in contrasts of robust ripe fruit and vibrant acidity. The midpalate is full, framed by modest tannins, and a richness that lingers through to the finish.

This wine is offering fantastic primary aromas of rich, ripe redberry fruit. I find undertones of sweet vanillin oak and hints of caramel. On the palate the wine is massive, with a wonderful core of fruit on the full midpalate. The balance of the wine from front to back is impeccable, and the finish is long and carries the fruit beautifully.