Taft Street Winery Russian River Valley Chardonnay

80% of the Chardonnay was barrel fermented in Damy French oak barrels. The wine was aged nine months Sur Lie and 30% of the barrel fermented wine underwent malolactic fermentation. Taft Street sourced local, well known Russian River Valley vineyards for this wine: Clone 17 from Saralee Kundee’s Catie’s Corner; Clone 4 & 809 from Hopkins Vineyards; and Clone 4 & 17 from Vino Farms’ Airport Vineyard and Art Ibleto’s Bella Sonoma vineyard. 2014 vintage conditions were similar to 2013, a long growing season with moderate weather provided added hang time for the fruit to develop ripe flavors. A mild winter and spring without frost led to crisper wines with higher acidity. The wine was aged in French oak, 10% new.

The Russian River Valley Chardonnay has a bright nose, with hints of soft lime and citrus flavors. Honeysuckle and apple add to the delightfully creamy combination of toasted almond and creme brulee. The result is a bright, fruit-forward wine with a very long finish.