1998 Chardonnay, Carneros
Vintage
1998
Price
$13
Release Date
October 1999
Appellation
Carneros
Availability
Select Markets Nationally
Vineyards
- Carneros - Ricci, Yamakawa, Vin del Sol, Sandbach, Leveroni, Sangiacomo,(El Novi
- (El Novilero, Kiser, Palmer, Tall Grass, Pear, Apple Patch, Corn Patch, Southern
- Chalk Hill - Moss Oak
- Napa Valley - Yount Mill
- Alexander Valley - Big Oak, Lakeville, Fairview
- Sonoma Valley - Sunnyslope
Vintage
1998 was, for the most part, 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
Grapes from the 21 blocks were culled at harvest and each lot was individually cold barrel-fermented (53° Fahrenheit) for about five weeks, in 85% American and 15% French oak barrels, prior to aging on the lees for eight months. Fifty percent underwent spontaneous malolactic fermentation. The wines were blended and bottled in August 1999. Alcohol 13.5%, total acidity .52, pH 3.60, .16 residual sugar. 42,600 cases produced.
Tasting Notes
Tropical and sweet citrus with forward vanilla, butter and toasted oak aromas. Wonderfully rich mouthfeel with good structure and bright tropical flavors. Smooth finish with good length.