2025 Clos de Napa Chardonnay

Vineyards: Grapes were harvested at optimal ripeness from select vineyards that benefit from cool, foggy mornings and warm afternoons, ensuring a balance of acidity and mature fruit flavors. After harvesting, the grapes were gently pressed, and the juice was fermented in a combination of stainless steel tanks and French oak barrels. This dual approach allowed the wine to retain the fresh, crisp characteristics of the fruit while gaining depth and complexity from the oak.

A portion of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation to soften the acidity and enhance a creamy texture, adding richness to the palate. Following fermentation, the Chardonnay was aged on its lees in barrel, with regular bâtonnage to increase richness and mouthfeel. This lees contact contributed nuanced bready and yeasty notes, adding layers to the wine’s profile.

The careful balance of fermentation techniques and thoughtful maturation ensures that the 2024 Chardonnay from Napa Valley expresses both the vibrancy of its fruit and the nuanced influence of oak, resulting in a well-rounded and elegant wine, ready to enjoy upon release yet with potential for further development in the bottle.

Wine: Showcasing a brilliant golden hue indicative of its rich and inviting profile, this Chardonnay offers a complex bouquet of ripe golden apple, creamy pear, and a hint of tropical pineapple, elegantly intertwined with subtle notes of toasted oak and vanilla.

The palate is lush and full-bodied, with a creamy texture that envelops the mouth. Flavors of baked apple and citrus zest are prominent, complemented by nuances of butterscotch and a delicate minerality that adds depth and balance. The integration of oak provides a warm undertone of spice and a smooth finish that lingers pleasantly, inviting another sip.