2011 Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.2% alc., $45. Released March 2013. The core is from Gap’s Crown Vineyard with added grapes grown by the Martinellis, the Duttons, and Charlie Chenoweth. Essentially, this is a blend of vineyard-designate quality sites including Zio Tony, Parmalee Hill, Sun Chase, Durell Vineyard and Dutton Ranch.Yields were down by almost 30% in 2011. Whole cluster pressed, indigenous yeast fermentation, aged sur lie with weekly stirring aged in 40% new French oak barrels. · Light golden straw color and clear in the glass. Inviting aromas of lemon cream, honey, malted milk and Asian pear. Good richness of flavor featuring honey, baked apple, lemon and burnt caramel notes with some oak showing up on the finish. Soft in the mouth and friendly, this is a solid appellation wine. Good (+). Reviewed June 23, 2013

Winery: Patz & Hall
From article: Sips of California Chardonnay & A Few Other Whites