Chalk Hill Chardonnay
Winemaker Bob Fredson sources STG Chardonnay from a small viticultural area that is virtually
synonymous with "Chardonnay." Chalk Hill is a sub-appellation of some 1000 acres within the
Alexander Valley. Chardonnay, the predominant grape here, is rooted in well-drained white
soils which derive their color from volcanic ash, not chalk as once thought. The summer
fog and cool nights are especially conductive to full development of Chardonnay character.
All the grapes for STG Chalk Hill Chardonnay were harvested by hand from a single vineyard.
The wine was fermented in 60-gallon barrels and remained in the barrels for several weeks to
add complexity; 80% of the wine then underwent malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged
in barrel sur lees for six months before being filtered and placed in new oak barrels for
additional maturing. The wine has distinctive fruity aromas, creamy texture and full body,
with attractive oak complexity.
About the Vineyard
The Blasi Vineyard is owned by the Blasi Family, second-generation California grape growers
originally hailing from Italy, where their family grew grapes for generations. Their passion
for grape growing is evident in the vineyards; the family meticulously tends to every vine to
make sure that with each vintage the fruit is able to develop to its maximum potential.
Winemaker's Notes:
A modestly warm summer with little fog and a long growing season gave us perfect sugar levels
with good acids and pH at harvest. The grapes were handpicked in the cool morning hours, destemmed,
pressed, chilled and placed in French oak barrels for fermentation. In the glass, a pale straw color
mixes with aromas and flavors of tropical fruit, grapefruit, lemon and melon. Partial malolactic fermentaion
(70%) adds complexity and hints of butterscotch to the blend. With its crisp flavors and excellent tannin structure
this wine is deliciously reminiscent of classic French Burgundy and will pair beautifully with pasta and cream
sauce, chicken or spicy Asian fare.
Winemaker
Bob Fredson
| Vineyard: |
Blasi vineyard |
| Ageing & Fermentation: |
24 Months Barrel Aged |
| 100% BARREL AGED ALCOHOL: |
13% |
| TOTAL ACIDITY: |
.71gms/100ml |
| pH: |
3.38 |
| RESIDUAL SUGAR: |
Dry |
| Oak Type: |
French |
|
