2020 Sea Slopes Chardonnay
Wine Specs
Vintage
2020
Varietal
Chardonnay
Appellation
Sonoma Coast
Aging
10 months in French oak; 10% new oak
Bottling Date
August 2021
Alcohol %
13.5
Sea Slopes Chardonnay is inspired by the majestic Sonoma Coast and the steep rugged ridges perched at the golden edge of the continent. Here, the cool maritime climate produces fruit of exceptional quality and allows us to craft wines of great elegance and purity.
91 Points, Editors' Choice - Wine Enthusiast
This is a great wine of great value, a showcase of the coast in fine hands. Softly layered with a plush mouthfeel, it has approachable acidity that helps to lift the refined flavors of Gravenstein apple, peach and Meyer lemon - Virginie Boone
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
Bright aromas of citrus, floral honeysuckle, Meyer lemon blossom and Golden Delicious apple soar from the glass.The palate is fresh and lively with mouthwatering acidity. Lemon tones are beautifully balanced by the luscious white peach notes and a touch of wet stone minerality.The fine texture reflects a deft hand in winemaking and the long, seamless finish completes this cool climate Chardonnay.
Vineyard Notes
The growing season on the coast welcomed normal rainfall levels for the first several months of the year, filling the reservoir and hydrating vineyard soils. A mild spring, with no frosts concerns brought an average-sized crop level. The summer enjoyed steady, mild 80-85° temperatures, allowing the grapes to develop ideal complexity and flavors. A warm August allowed harvest to begin on the earlier side, creating wines with freshness, acidity, beautiful fruit and concentration.
Winemaker Notes
The grapes were hand-sorted to include the finest fruit, which was then gently pressed. Fermentation occurred in the ideal combination of stainless steel and neutral barrels for vibrancy and freshness as well as a small amount of new French oak barrels which adds texture and length to the finish.The wine completed malolactic fermentation, adding a supple richness. Prior to bottling it was aged on the lees with occasional gentle stirring culminating in a pure expression of Chardonnay from the extreme Sonoma Coast.
Other Notes
Winemaker: Jeff Pisoni
2020 Sea Slopes Chardonnay
Wine Specs
Vintage
2020
Varietal
Chardonnay
Appellation
Sonoma Coast
Aging
10 months in French oak; 10% new oak
Bottling Date
August 2021
Alcohol %
13.5