2018 - Chardonnay Reserve - Santa Cruz Mountains
This is the 2nd vintage of our Mount Eden clone Chardonnay after the vineyard was replanted. It spent 9 months on the lees in 25% new French oak with regular battonage, especially during the full malolactic fermentation.
This clone of Chardonnay always results in a deeply colored, golden wine. This year, it has a particularly tropical profile with notes of pineapple, mango, & starfruit. A buttered biscuit note hints at the traditional malolactic fermentation & sur lie aging.
Butternut squash ravioli tossed in sage & toasted pecans makes a picture-perfect match for this toasty, creamy wine. If you’re looking to pair one local treat with another, the Mt. Tam Triple Creme from Cowgirl Creamery is a great choice. This is an intense wine that we like better a little warmer, so we recommend only refrigerating 20 minutes before serving.
WINEMAKER'S TASTING NOTES:
The 2018 Chardonnay Reserve from the Corralitos area of Santa Cruz is a refined and beautifully balanced wine that showcases the unique character of this cool-climate region. The nose is a blend of luscious nectarine, tropical pineapple, and juicy peach, creating an inviting and vibrant bouquet. On the palate, rich layers of creamy texture unfold, with a hint of vanilla and subtle oak, adding depth and complexity. The bright acidity provides structure, lifting the fruit flavors and contributing to a long, smooth finish. A luxurious Chardonnay that captures the essence of Corralitos with elegance and style.
