2014 Chardonnay, Freestone Vineyards

Winemaker Notes Fragrant orange blossom, citrus peel and ripe green apple scents are a hallmark of this wine. Bright and fresh with firm acidity and balanced minerality, the 2014 Chardonnay is overflowing with Gravenstein apple, vanilla bean and Kaffir lime notes followed by a long lemon crème finish.

Winemaking Data Our estate vineyards in Freestone were picked under lights to preserve fruit integrity and freshness before whole cluster pressing cold directly to barrel for fermentation. Barrels were stirred to suspend the lees during malolactic fermentation and the wines were racked once before bottling.

Vintage Notes The 2014 Sonoma Coast growing season began with dry, mild winter conditions until much needed rain arrived in February and March. Bud break and bloom were again early, as in 2012 and 2013. Consistent temperatures during the summer growing months created ideal ripening conditions for an early harvest. Grapes achieved phenomenal fruit character early and their maturation occurred at a steady, even pace for overall consistency. This created intense and concentrated flavors at harvest.

Reviews 92 Points - Antonio Galloni, Vinous
The 2014 Chardonnay Freestone Vineyards is rich, deeply-colored and intense, with plenty of orange peel, crème brûlée and vanilla scents that add complexity. This is a decidedly ample, broad Chardonnay endowed with a real sense of phenolic richness and resonance that carries through to the deep, powerful finish. (Feb. 2016)