2022 Chardonnay
Tasting Notes
A preview of the beautifully concentrated wine to come, the 2022 Fort Ross Chardonnay beams with a shimmering deep lemon hue that extends from core to rim in the glass. Aromas of ripe pear, lemon curd, toasted brioche, and a subtle burst of ripe stone fruit mingle with an edge of coastal salinity and notes of crushed stone. On the palate, this Chardonnay delivers unquestionable density and purity, with flavors of baked apple, grilled white peach, and honeycomb enhancing the mouthfeel. The bracing winds of the true Sonoma Coast and the chilled sea air preserve a noticeable vibrancy and freshness in this wine, adding layers of complexity and promising a long life in the bottle.
Wine Specs
- Aging:
- 11 months in French oak; 30% new
- Bottling Date:
- August 2022
- Cases:
- 340
Vineyard Notes
The 2022 growing season produced outstanding wines. A warmer-than-usual winter led to an early budbreak on February 18th, followed by average spring temperatures that spurred early vine growth. Unhoped for late spring rains during the flowering season impacted the berry set and reduced the 2022 potential crop size – thus producing a small but intensely flavored grape crop. However, the sunny days of summer above the Pacific coast allowed for ample fruit flavor development, while the chilly ocean winds maintained fresh acidity. Harvest officially began on August 19th, but yields were down considerably. Despite the lower quantities, 2022 is a memorable vintage, with excellent fruit quality and small, flavorful berries that possess exceptional concentration and complexity.
Winemaker Notes
The grapes were handpicked during the cool hours of the night in small two-gallon picking trays then hand sorted in the vineyard and gently whole cluster pressed at the winery. After pressing, the juice was put into barrels and underwent primary and malolactic fermentation in a combination of 30% new and 70% neutral French oak. This discrete use of new oak allowed the fruit to shine. This wine is comprised of small berried old Hyde field selection chosen for its richness and sleek structure and low-yielding Wente for its luscious fruit and grace. These heritage field selections have full, complex flavors that are intensified by the small size of both the bunches and the berries.