Fall Release Bressay Estate Vineyard Chardonnay
2021

Winemaker’s Notes

This is the inaugural vintage of a very special 1.5-acre vine parcel that’s producing a totally unique wine of highly specific character that also happens to be completely delicious. Our first Bressay Chardonnay comes from mature vines planted amongst the forest in red Altamont soils on a steep east-facing hillside. The dense forest that surrounds the vines, the block’s high-density configuration, and a unique meso-climate combine to heavily influence the wine’s character – to a far greater degree than winemaking techniques ever could. Previously these grapes were a component in both Highland Divide and DuMOL Estate, and I’ve been patiently waiting to perfect the farming of this marginal site before committing to bottle this as a stand-alone designate. One of my favorite wines of the vintage with likely the strongest vineyard signature of our entire portfolio.

Complex savory aromas of sage, fennel, white flowers and citrus zest. The wine is initially taut and structured with immediately bracing acidity and flavors akin to honeyed citrus, beeswax, ginger and green apple. As the wine unfolds it quickly adds richness, texture and depth. There are masses of chewy vine extract – the by-product of the grape skins themselves - with weight and concentration to burn. The driving natural acidity cuts through this density to draw out the wine’s long tense finish. Spectacular, thrilling coastal Californian Chardonnay. Serve at no cooler than 53F and drink between late-2023 and 2031.

Andy Smith