Description
2022 Chardonnay
Production: 110 cases
In the Vineyard
The 2022 Chardonnay returns to grapes grown in Colorado, partially from the Grand Valley and partially estate-grown. An early season brought us grapes from the Grand Valley AVA on September 16.
Brix: 25
pH: 3.69
TA: 4.8 g/l
Nearly a month later, our estate Chardonnay was picked on October 12.
Brix: 24
pH: 3.37
TA: 7.1 g/l
In the Cellar
Both lots were crushed, pressed and allowed to settle overnight. The clear juice was transferred to barrel and inoculated. As the primary fermentations neared completion they were allowed to continue through malo-lactic fermentation. As the barrel works its magic over winter, the lees were stirred several times adding a yeasty, creamy component and reducing the expression of buttery flavors. The blend of wines from two different growing regions supported the softness of the Grand Valley-sourced grapes and toned down the raciness the estate-grown grapes resulting in a beautiful, well balanced wine.
