1979 California Chardonnay
Winemaker's Notes
Despite prolonged heat spells in July and September, 1979 produced wines of excellent varietal character and good acidity. The fruit was received in fine condition and provided the raw material for textbook winemaking.
Vintage Weather
Cool. Early spring heat waves caused uneven set. Cool growing season, followed by rains at harvest. Early picking resulted in well-balanced, clean fruit.
Tasting Notes
The aroma of this wine is one of the best examples of pure Chardonnay varietal character ever produced at the Chateau. The barest hint of oak complexes an intense nose reminiscent of fresh apples and pears. High body and extract on the palate are balanced by a very crisp acidity. Varietal flavors linger long into the finish. An additional six months to one year of bottle age will polish the assertive taste impressions.
Jerry E. Luper, Winemaker
Technical Data:
| Harvest Dates: | Sept. 13 to Nov. 2 |
| Bottling Date: | September, 1980 |
| Release Date: | April, 1981 |
| Appellation: | California |
| Time in Oak: | 6 months |
| Sugar at Harvest: | 23.5° brix |
| Alcohol: | 13.8% |
| Total Acidity: | 0.77g/100ml. |
