1980 Napa Valley Chardonnay
Winemaker's Notes
1980, a vintage year of a cool growing season, went out in a blast of heat that rushed the harvest into becoming the shortest ever. Late in September, the grapes, which had slowly been creeping into maturity, were rushed into the cellar in optimum condition with exceptional character and balanced maturity. The excellent quality of the Napa Chardonnay fruit was especially encouraging, as we had hoped for a wine of distinction to commemorate our Centennial. As the wine matured in Limousin barrels, we knew we had a wine worthy of being a “Centennial issue,” and after an additional year in the bottle, it is living up to our expectations.
Vintage Weather
Hot. Coolest growing season on record, but heat wave at crush ripened grapes nicely. Intense, well-balanced fruit. Great potential on these wines.
Tasting Notes
The distinct Chardonnay character of light pineapple with a spicy floral citrus aroma dominates the bouquet. The taste is of rich Chardonnay flavor balanced by a silky body and a refreshing acidity. A faint hint of oak adds another dimension to a distinguished wine.
Bo Barrett, Winemaker
Technical Data:
| Harvest Dates: | Sept. 25 to Oct. 10 |
| Bottling Date: | October 1981 |
| Release Date: | September 1982 |
| Appellation: | Napa Valley |
| Time in Oak: | 7 months |
| Sugar at Harvest: | 23.8° brix |
| Alcohol: | 13.5% |
| Total Acidity: | .84g/100ml |
