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2020 Chardonnay
Description
Winemaking Notes
Lemon pie and custard aromas mix with exotic quince and layers of creamy oak in our 2020 Chalk Hill Chardonnay. Bright green apple and a citrusy lemon kick balance out the smooth oak tones. The creamy mouthfeel leads to a bright finish of grapefruit zest and hints of tart apple. Enjoy this now with soft cheeses or simply with good company.
History
In 1965, our founder Rod Strong was the first to plant Chardonnay in what would later be recognized as the Chalk Hill American Viticultural Area (AVA), established officially in 1983. He recognized the region as distinct from the rest of Russian River Valley for its unique, volcanically-derived, chalky white ash soils, which impart a subtle mineral character to wines grown there.
The Vineyards
2020 was notable for being another dry growing season, with only a few showers throughout spring, milder weather through most of the year and lower yields at harvest. The dry season and judicious irrigation resulted in smaller leaves and canopy area, allowing the fruit to acclimate to greater light exposure than is typical. With everything in balance, we harvested August 13-September 11.
