2020 Chardonnay, Pastorale Vineyard

Winemaker Notes The 2020 Chardonnay opens with aromatic green apple, lemon zest, floral citrus blossoms and hints of freshly baked bread. A layered, balanced offering filled with lemon meringue and briny notes, a creamy texture, tangy acidity and a lengthy viscous finish.

Winemaking Data A blend of two Chardonnay blocks from our Pastorale Vineyard featuring Old and New Calera, Maro, clone 76, Montra, and clone 2A. The fruit was whole cluster pressed and barrel aged. The resulting wine is focused and richly textured.

Vintage Notes The 2020 growing season saw a warm and dry winter that was followed by a wet spring that enabled a much-needed recharge to the soil moisture in Freestone. Due to the warmer winter, bud break was two weeks earlier than 2019. The month of May had a warming trend that started an early bloom. During the mid-summer months, Freestone was protected from extreme heat thanks in part to the moderating effects of the Pacific Ocean and the marine layer. Overall, 2020 was marked by little rain accumulation, leading to drought conditions. Lower yields in the Chardonnay produced fruit with excellent flavor, intensity, and crisp acidity.

Reviews 92 Points - Robert Parker Wine Advocate
The 2020 Chardonnay Pastorale Vineyard is scented of baked apples and pears with accents of beeswax, pie spice and baker's yeast. The medium-bodied palate is creamy and expansive with bright acidity and a long, textural finish. Drink it over the next 3-5 years. -EB, July 2022

Tasting Notes Download Tasting Notes (pdf)