2021 Chardonnay

“The 2021 Chardonnay comes all from the estate vineyard and was brought up in 25% new oak (with partial malolactic fermentation). It has a beautifully nutty, richer style as well as medium to full-bodied depth on the palate. The fruit here is more honeydew and melon as opposed to citrus, and it has a beautiful floral character, background oak, and outstanding length. ” –Jeb Dunnuck (Feb. 2024) 93 points

Tasting Notes

Crisp and concentrated, the 2021 Seavey Chardonnay features aromas of pear, dried apricot, and lemongrass. These are joined on the pallet by flavors of honeydew, nectarine, and rosemary, and of course finishing with our signature minerality. Offering a vibrant acidity beautifully balanced by hints of seashell and a light oak structure. The 2021 crop produced historically low yields due to drought which enhanced the concentration of flavors.

Ratings

Jeb Dunnuck (Feb. 2024) 93 points
“The 2021 Chardonnay comes all from the estate vineyard and was brought up in 25% new oak (with partial malolactic fermentation). It has a beautifully nutty, richer style as well as medium to full-bodied depth on the palate. The fruit here is more honeydew and melon as opposed to citrus, and it has a beautiful floral character, background oak, and outstanding length. “

Vineyard Notes

Our Chardonnay blocks are nestled at the lowest elevation of our Estate, down by Conn Creek, where they are surrounded on three sides by trees. The resulting environment encourages a crisp Chardonnay with a wide flavor profile that conveys the soil’s minerality and cool location. The growing season was frought with drought conditions, beginning with scant winter rains. The vines woke up early and struggled to grow a full sized canopy resulting in a smaller than usual crop of very small berries, which lended itself to not only concentrated flavors but relatively high acidity given the concentration of acids in the grapes.

Production Notes

The grapes were picked in the cool, early morning hours and then immediately whole-cluster pressed before beginning fermentation in French oak barrels. The wine continued to age in the French oak barrels for nine months (25% new) before bottling in May 2022.

100% ESTATE GROWN, PRODUCED & BOTTLED, NAPA VALLEY AVA