2016 Spell Chardonnay Russian River Valley

by Spell Estate Wines, Tastemakers in Residence

Located between the towns of Graton and Forestville in Sonoma County, the Falcon Crest Vineyard was planted in 2002 to a heritage selection of Chardonnay from the famed Montrachet vineyard in France. With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the growing season of warm, sunny days followed by cool, foggy evenings allows for a slow and even ripening. The extremely small clusters and berries are grown at this vineyard produce wines of remarkable flavor and texture and age ability. 

A hazy light chartreuse color introduces aromas of ripe apples and stone fruits, orange oil, and reductive crushed rocks. A creamy blend of lemon curd, green apple, ripe pear, stone fruit and toasted oats sweep across the palate. Extremely soft and seductive, the finish is heightened by bright acidity and savory minerality. Enjoy now over the next 2 – 5 years.

Harvest Dates: 09/7/16
Vineyards: Falcon Crest Vineyard
Barrel Breakdown: 60% new oak, 20% twice used and 20% older.  100% French oak.
Bottled: February 3, 2018
pH: 3.42
TA: 6.1g/L
Cases Produced: 125