2014 Sierra Mar Vineyard Chardonnay

Our 2014 Sierra Mar Vineyard Chardonnay comes from a remote spot high above the Salinas Valley in the Santa Lucia Highlands.  Many days this site is above the fog and wind that we see in vineyards not as high in elevation, like Peterson and Rosella's.  This results in a different flavor profile than the cooler spots, and usually things ripen earlier at Sierra Mar.  The unexpected happened in 2014 when the Sierra Mar and Rosella's Vineyard Chardonnays ripened on the same day, September 12.

 

We barrel fermented the '14 Sierra Mar Chard in neutral French oak, which gives it a soft, rich texture, but helps the wine retain the aromas and flavors of the fruit and the vineyard.  The 2014 should follow the same path as the 2013 Sierra Mar Chardonnay and will be ready to drink on the younger side.  We anticipate its best drinking window between 2016 and 2020.

 

Wine Profile

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