2018, Goldschmidt Singing Tree, Chardonnay, Russian River, Sonoma, California, USA, 13.9% Alc, CT, TW91

The rolling hills and gentle slopes near the town of Sebastopol were once home to apple orchards filled with songbirds. By the early 1990’s though, most of the orchards were replanted with grapes. The factors that define a quality Chardonnay vineyard are numerous, but Nick Goldschmidt believes matching varietal and rootstock to the right vineyard site yields the most flavorful grapes. High quality grapes grow only under certain optimum soil conditions, including a balance of nutrients within certain clays. These clay minerals play a critical role, as they can retain water and act as harbors for nutrients better than other soil types. Clays that offer slow nutrient transfer to grape vine plants are preferred.

Tasting Notes: Wonderfully bright and refreshing style with crisp, green apple characteristics, medium-to-high acidity and good length. Old field selection clones yield fruit with high natural acidity and citrus flavors like grapefruit and lemon. The nose shows lime, Meyer lemon, and ripe apple. Flavors of juicy green apple, dried fig, white peach, and apricot mingle with hints of vanilla. The dash of French oak pushes the finish a little longer with hints of vanilla and caramel.