2015 J Chardonnay, STRATA

750ml
$40
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Overview
Winemaking

Crisp and focused, the distinctive 2015 J Vineyards STRATA Chardonnay opens with aromas of yellow apple and pineapple, backed by hints of toffee, clove and cinnamon spice. On the palate, notes of lemon cream and lime zest are accented by Bosc pear and ginger. With its refreshingly crisp acidity, the versatile STRATA Chardonnay pairs well with lobster bisque or alongside aged white cheddar with a spiced apple compote.

VITICULTURE NOTES

The 2015 vintage was early, short and fairly warm. After significant winter rainfall and a warm spring, budbreak occurred in mid-March. In May, cooler temperatures slowed down growth and led to a long bloom period that lowered yields. These conditions coupled with constant coastal breezes provided an ideal combination of elements to produce concentrated fruit flavors and a crisp acidity.

WINEMAKING NOTES

The grapes for the 2015 STRATA Chardonnay were sourced from four incredible vineyards throughout the cool-climate Russian River Valley. In addition to showcasing expert winemaking blending, the lots chosen for inclusion in our STRATA Chardonnay feature the distinctive terroir–driven lemon cream and focused minerality qualities of this ideal Chardonnay growing region.

Grapes were hand harvested in late August/early September at 23.5 Brix, then whole clusters gently pressed to obtain clean juice. After two days of settling, juice was racked to barrels for a long, slow and cool barrel fermentation that allowed the wine to develop refined fruit flavors. Three months of malolactic sur-lie fermentation delivered the wine’s creamy, silky character. We used tight-grain French oak barrels, 33% new, for nine months’ aging, giving the wine hints of toasty character and elegant vanilla flavor.