1996 Reserve Chardonnay, Carneros
Vintage
1996
Price
$25
Release Date
February 1998
Appellation
Carneros
Availability
Select Markets Nationally
Vineyards
- Sangiacomo Vineyard
- Southern Sonoma Ricci Vineyards & Vina del Sol
- Ricci Vineyards & Vina del Sol
Grapes
100% Chardonnay
Vintage
The Sees clone, planted in 1974 on the Sangiacomo Southern Sonoma vineyard, has consistently produced wine of great distinction in the 10 years that Benziger has vinified these grapes. 1996 was no exception. Harvested eight days earlier than usual, the crop was a little smaller than normal but gave intense flavor and great texture.
Vinification
The lots with the finest track record were culled from 20 year old vines and re-selected at the winery. These were 100% cold (50° Fahrenheit) barrel-fermented for about five weeks and aged for seven months in 100% French Sansaud, Redmond and Gillet oak barrels where they were stirred every three weeks. 90% underwent malolactic fermentation: the finest barrels were then selected, blended and bottled in traditional, heavy, deeply-punted Sommelier's Burgundy bottles in August 1997. The wines were blended and bottled in July, 1996. Alcohol: 14.1% Total Acidity: .56 pH: 3.68 residual sugar: .16 530 cases produced.
Tasting Notes
Multi-layered flavors and a real sense of place. Tangerine and lemon nose with hints of butterscotch and floral aromas in the nose. Layers of concentrated flavors, including cloves and cinnamon. Rich buttery texture and a long cherry finish. Enjoyable on release and should age well for several years. Best with seafood, chicken and even pork chops.