2022 Charles Heintz Vineyard Chardonnay
A full-bodied Chardonnay, weaving notes of Gravenstein apple, tropical lychee, and Bartlett pear into a bright, satiny masterpiece with a lusciously crisp finish.
James MacPhail's Notes
This is one of California’s most iconic vineyard sites for Chardonnay - a ‘Grand Cru-esque’ site if we were to have one - located on the far western reaches of the Green Valley appellation. This spectacular, high-elevation vineyard receives the brunt of a strong maritime influence which develops complex savory and mineral notes. The Heintz family planted their vines in 1980 and their fruit makes stunningly beautiful and complex-driven wines.
Winemaker
- Aging
- Aged 16 months in 100% French Oak, 30% new
- Appellation
- Russian River Valley
- Alcohol
- 14.5%
Tasting Notes
This Chardonnay is full-bodied, textural, weighty, rich, viscous and complex. Aromas of Gravenstein apple, lemon blossom, white flowers, tropical, and nectarine. On the palate, flavors of Gravenstein apple, Bartlett pear, lemon meringue, and stone fruit. Bright and crisp yet has a satiny texture and luscious finish.
Production Notes
Grapes were hand-picked and whole cluster pressed, slow with low pressure. The wine was barrel fermented with native yeasts and underwent 40% malolactic fermentation, post-primary fermentation. It was aged sur lie in barrel for 16 months with weekly battonage through primary fermentation.
