Spring Release Wester Reach Chardonnay
2021

Winemaker’s Notes

Our 2021 vintage of “Wester Reach” Chardonnay is a multi-layered interpretation of this classic region where we live and farm. It includes some of the greatest sites in the appellation—vineyards that we have planted, farmed, and harvested for over twenty years. Comprising three of our region’s unique sub-districts, the wine blends fruit from the valley itself with vineyards further west, stretching out to the coolest ‘reaches’ of the appellation’s high elevation coastal ridges. Each district contributes something unique, be it valley-floor richness, ridgeline density or coastal vibrancy.

From the Middle Reach in the north, the broad orchard fruit generosity of our Flax Estate centers the wine. Directly across the river, El Diablo’s volcanic hillside emphasizes texture and density. On the Santa Rosa plain, we layer in the old vines at the iconic Lorenzo Vineyard with their trademark savory grapefruit intensity, and Cornerstone with its piercing acidity and honeyed richness. As we leave the valley itself and inch towards the coast at higher elevation on a ridgetop overlooking the Green Valley, the majestic Heintz Ranch completes the wine with its sweet botanical and truffle-infused complexity and savory/mineral drive.

Great aromatic intensity—citrus and nectarine fruits, jasmine and orange blossom, briny/flinty sea spray edges. The flavors center upon lemony green apple then deeper stone fruits with honeysuckle and ginger richness. The wine’s texture is deep, oily, and layered. Fresh mineral, grapefruit acidity cuts through the richness giving a pinpoint focus to the wine’s long echoing finish. Drink between 2023 and 2027.

Andy Smith