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Wine Information
Blend and Grape Sources
100% estate-grown Chardonnay from our Pastorale Vineyard.
Appellations
Sonoma Coast
Harvest Dates
September 25, October 3 and October 6, 2012
Winemaking Data
The grapes that went into this limited production wine came from two blocks of Chardonnay planted at the Freestone estate. The first is planted to a mixture of heritage French selections and clone 76 while the second is an American heritage selection. Grapes were whole cluster pressed and fermented slowly over several months in puncheons and barrels, followed by malolactic fermentation. Barrels were stirred as necessary, resulting in a wine of great depth with a delicate toasted nut finish.
Aged 14 months in 75% new and 25% one-year-old French oak puncheons and barrels before bottling.
Winemaker Notes
This extremely aromatic Chardonnay fills the senses with sweet Meyer lemon, toasted brioche and honeysuckle notes. A voluminous mouthfeel and oily texture highlight the citrus, Bosc pear, tangerine oil and spices that envelope the palate. Richly textured with lively acidity and minerality in the long, viscous finish.
Vintage Notes
The 2012 Sonoma Coast growing season began with normal winter and early spring rains. The 2012 weather pattern more closely lined-up with the 2008 growing season, with bud break and veraison occurring earlier than in 2010 and 2011. Coastal morning fog gave way to warm afternoon sunshine during the important summer months for a long, moderate growing season. Grapes were given ample time for even, full maturity with uniform sugar and acid levels.
2012 produced exceptional quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from our estate vineyards in Freestone. The Chardonnays are richly textured with distinctive minerality and pure finesse on the palate.