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1998 Chardonnay, Yamakawa Vineyards, Carneros

Vintage

Each year Yamakawa is one of the last Chardonnay vineyards picked. In 1998 this was compounded a very late and very wet growing season, culminating in a gloriously warm autumn. Significant culling was undertaken to rid the vineyards of damaged fruit. The combination of smaller crops and higher acids produced grapes with wonderful balance and fruit intensity.

Vinification

The fruit was sorted twice in the vineyard to make certain only sound clusters made it to the crusher. The juice was cold barrel fermented and put through complete malolactic fermentation. Even after malolactic fermentation the wine exhibits crisp acidity while maintaining good intensity of flavor and a smooth texture. Alcohol 14.05%, total acidity .50, pH 3.88, residual sugar .18. 638 cases produced.

Tasting Notes

Aromas of tropical fruit mix with hints of butterscotch and toasty oak. Flavors of rich pear, citrus and vanilla lead to a smooth creamy finish! Pair this wine with seafood, chicken or pork dishes.