Domaine Bousquet Chardonnay Grande Reserve 2020

This is Domaine Bousquet’s line starring their best grapes from the “home” vineyard – the original vineyard planted by Jean Bousquet in the late 1990s. This was the terroir that caught Jean’s imagination because it had a rarity – sand. Sandy soil makes for elegant wines (a “must” for this Frenchman). Its low fertility gives desirable vine stress; it is permeable for good drainage and has no salinity issues, often a problem in arid areas. Grapes here are the last to be harvested; the extra hang time ensures heightened richness and body.

100% Chardonnay, clusters are pressed at low temperatures, followed by fermentation and maceration with selected yeast in oak barrels for 30 days. Aged for 10 months in French oak. Bright yellow color. Intense white fruits, pear, coconut and vanilla aromas. Smooth and creamy palate with medium to high volume and refreshing acidity.