Tribute Chardonnay 2018

Our San Lucas Vineyard in Monterey County lies on the southwestern edge of the Santa Lucia Mountain Range and is farmed with Certified Sustainable methods. The vineyards are within a protected micro climate, which allows for warmer overall daytime temperature. Morning fog and dramatic temperature shifts from morning to evening help elongate hang-time as the grape clusters rest in the cool evenings. The Lockwood Shaly Loam soil is made up of fossilized seashells similar to limestone, which is ideal for Sauvignon Blanc and results in the wine’s crisp minerality.

With ideal conditions during flowering and a cooler, dry year, yields were healthy and the quality superb. Mild temperatures allowed for flexibility of long hang time, allowing acids to find perfect balance with flavor development. To create different aspects of the flavor profile, grapes were picked at different points of the ripening season. Those picked early at lower brix offer bright lime & grapefruit aromas. Grapes picked mid-way with more developed brix add delicious pineapple and kiwi flavors. The final grapes picked late in the season with the highest brix add to mouthfeel and viscosity.