2016 Windvane Carneros Chardonnay

14.5% alc., pH 3.25, TA 0.67, 2,700 cases, $40. Clones include 96, 4, 5, and 108. Whole cluster pressed and transferred to stainless steel tanks for cold settling. The racked juice was inoculated and transferred to French oak barrels, 25% new, for 9 months of aging. About 21% of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation. Lees stirring was done during monthly toppings. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of lemon oil, pineapple, buttery brioche and toast. Rich in the mouth with layers of pineapple, pear, white peach and lemon goodness. Moderately viscous on the palate. The underlying bright acidity is well-integrated as is the thread of enhancing oak. A quintessential California, sun-kissed style of Chardonnay. Score: 93. Reviewed January 17, 2019

Winery: WindVane
From article: Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay