1997 Reserve Chardonnay, Carneros
Vintage
1997
Price
$25
Release Date
January 1999
Appellation
Sonoma Mountain
Availability
Select Markets Nationally
Vineyards
- Sangiacomo Vineyard
- Southern Sonoma Ricci Vineyards & Vina del Sol
- Northern Napa, Carneros
- Moss Oak
- Alexander Valley
- Sunnyslope, Sonoma County
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. 1997 is the second reserve release from these grapes and together with Chardonnay harvested from other select vineyards within Sonoma County's cool growing region they produce a wine of forward tropical fruit and strong structure.
Vinification
The lots with the finest track record were culled from 20-year old vines, and re-selected again at the winery. These were 100% cold (50° Fahrenheit) barrel-fermented for about five weeks and aged for nine months in 75% French oak barrels where they were stirred every two weeks.100% underwent malolactic fermentation; the finest barrels were then selected, blended and bottled in August, 1998. Alcohol 13.9%, total acidity .67, pH 3.54, residual sugar .11.
Tasting Notes
Multi-layered flavors and a real sense of place; bright tropical fruit, butterscotch and floral aromas in the nose. In the mouth crisp and intense fruit with a hint of clove and a toasted buttery texture give way to a long creamy finish. Enjoyable on release and should age well for several years. Best with seafood, chicken and even pork chops.