Layer Cake Virgin Chardonnay - Monterey

Winemaker Notes

Our approach to Chardonnay is one of non-intervention, allowing the fruit and the place to speak for itself, and then layering in our techniques to bring it to its fullest potential. We let the grapes develop fully, which in our vineyards means concentrated and complex layers of fruit, heady evocative aromatics and perfect balance of flavor. We ferment in stainless steel at low temperatures to preserve the intense, complex aromatics, and then age certain lots in 3-year air-dried French oak to accentuate and balance the concentrated fruit, adding another layer of complexity with the subtle, high-quality oak. The result is a rich wine, but with clean, pure layers of flavors and aromatics.

Vineyard Notes

Our Monterey vineyards border the Santa Lucia Highlands. Shallow granitic soils lend mineral characteristics and beautiful citrus blossom aromas to the wine.  Cooling winds flow in from Monterey Bay each afternoon, preserving crisp acidity and delicate aromatics.

Our Santa Barbara vineyards are in the steep hills surrounding Los Alamos in a canyon that leads directly to the Pacific Ocean. Sandy soils, bright sunshine and very cool ocean breezes combine to lengthen ripening and extend hang time, resulting in the unusual combination of tropical fruit characteristics and great structure.

Tasting Notes

The nose is reminiscent of Meyer lemons, preserved then diced up later in the year, wet stones and lime blossoms waft in and out as well. The wine builds in body and texture as it sits in your mouth. Layers of Kaffir lime, guava, and pineapple pour in at first, and then the light creamy texture of whipped lemon curd fills in. The finish is clean and crisp, lingering enough to make you want another sip…go ahead, we’ll make more next year, don’t worry.