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1987 Alexander Valley Chardonnay

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Winemaker's Notes
The growing season of 1987 was the first of several successive years with less than normal rainfall.  That combined with a very hot summer, resulted in a shortened growing season and early harvest.  There is an old cellar adage that an early harvest presages an early maturing wine.  We think you will find that to be the case with this Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes
As in 1981 and 1984, similar ‘early’ years, this wine shows mature complexities in color and aromas despite it’s relative youth.  Pineapple fruit and hints of oak and yeast are apparent.  As it warms in the glass layers of tropical fruit fragrances characteristic of Alexander Valley Chardonnay mingle with hints of vanilla and caramel from wood ageing.  

Upon tasting you immediately ‘feel’ as much as taste that this is a supple vintage.  Lush fruit flavors and a smooth body are again indications of drink ability that belie the wine’s youth.  The long, smooth finish highlights the balance of the vintage.  Best accompanied by seafood such as poached salmon, mussels in saffron or sautéed scallops with ginger.

Enjoy…

Bo Barrett, Winemaker