Chalk Hill 2021 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

"Features pear drop, Fuji apple, ripe Bartlett pear and lemon blossom details that are elegant and restrained, but they weave in and out on a light, fresh frame that's quite impressive. Gains a savory element, thanks to a touch of toasted sesame seed." Wine Spectator 92 Points

"Our 2021 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is bright, forward, balanced and approachable. Enticing aromas of bright pear, peach, spice and vanilla lead into a broad-textured, and creamy palate. With its cool-climate influences, this chardonnay has remarkable varietal intensity, balanced acidity and mineral notes that complement the rich and full flavors of fresh pear, orange peel, and toasted almond.

The 2021 vintage was warmer than average with little rainfall leading to a relatively early bud-break. Warm temperatures continued into summer setting the stage for full ripening, fresh acidity and beautifully balanced fruit. The fruit was harvested September 6th - September 30th in the cool, early morning hours to preserve vibrant fruit character. The wine was aged sur lie in 25% new French oak for 9 months.

VINEYARD NOTES
Since its founding, Chalk Hill has been producing artisan wines from our Estate vineyards in the hills of northeastern Sonoma County. For four decades we have studied, prodded, and coaxed our complex terroir to ensure that our Estate wines deliver vivid aromatics, commanding flavors, great character and regional accuracy. While our 300+ acres of vineyards surrounding the winery will always be the cornerstone of our identity, starting with the 2011 vintage, in addition to our Estate Chardonnay, we started producing our first Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. This 2018 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay comes from extraordinary vineyards throughout Sonoma County consisting primarily of Foley Family estate vineyards. Our Sonoma Coast Chardonnay features fruit from some of the best sites in the Russian River Valley, Carneros, and Chalk Hill. The fruit coming from the Chalk Hill AVA provides richness, concentration, viscosity and nuttiness, while the Carneros AVA delivers structure and notes of apple and pear."