Palate
This is a complex, fruit- forward, fresh style of Washington Chardonnay.
Growing Conditions
The 2017 growing season was cooler and crop yields were significantly lower in comparison to the past two vintages.
The lower temperatures delayed ripening and helped to retain fresh fruit aromatics and mouthwatering acidity.
Despite cold winter conditions, 2017 gave us concentrated wines with classic Washington state character.
Sourced from Chardonnay fruit from Zephyr Ridge Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA.
An ideal site for Chardonnay, the vineyard at Zephyr Ridge maintains a cooler climate, perfect for a fresh, fruity style.
Planted in 1991, the site’s proximity to the river and strong wind patterns protect it from temperature extremes, allowing uniform ripening and excellent color development.
Winemaking
In 2017, Chardonnay Block 5 at Zephyr Ridge Vineyard was outstanding. We fermented the wine using native yeast in a brand-new Oak Oval. The new oval is not toasted on the inside like a new barrel, so the oak impact is very minimal.
Ripe grapes were destemmed and went through natural yeast fermentation.
Aging
100% aged sur lie for eight months in large upright neutral French oak.
