Layer Cake Chardonnay

Winemaker Notes

Our approach to Chardonnay is one of non-intervention, allowing the fruit and the place to speak for itself, and then layering in our techniques to bring it to its fullest potential. We let the grapes develop fully, which in our vineyards means concentrated and complex layers of fruit, heady evocative aromatics and perfect balance of flavor. We ferment in stainless steel at low temperatures to preserve the intense, complex aromatics, and then age certain lots in 3-year air-dried French oak to accentuate and balance the concentrated fruit, adding another layer of complexity with the subtle, high-quality oak. The result is a rich wine, but with clean, pure layers of flavors and aromatics.

Vineyard Notes

Our Monterey vineyards border the Santa Lucia Highlands. Shallow granitic soils lend mineral characteristics and beautiful citrus blossom aromas to the wine.  Cooling winds flow in from Monterey Bay each afternoon, preserving crisp acidity and delicate aromatics.

Our Santa Barbara vineyards are in the steep hills surrounding Los Alamos in a canyon that leads directly to the Pacific Ocean. Sandy soils, bright sunshine and very cool ocean breezes combine to lengthen ripening and extend hang time, resulting in the unusual combination of tropical fruit characteristics and great structure.

Tasting Notes

The nose jumps right to rich, creamy lemon pie in the oven, with all the warm pastry aromas riding along. Rich layers of flavor fill the mouth; ripe Bartlett pears, brioche, hazelnut praline and grilled pineapple followed by a lingering, creamy, citrus finish. Crisp on the nose, rich and layered in the mouth, and clean acidity keep this Chardonnay balanced and leaves you wanting more…get some while it lasts.