2023 Chardonnay, Jaxon

The historic property on our Mendocino estate sits just west of the Russian River in the Sanel Valley. The cool breezes coming down from lake Mendocino mix with the gusts coming up from the Alexander Valley create the perfect ripening environment for clone 4 chardonnay. This rot-resistant clone thrives in the clay loam soil with underlying gravel, which increases drainage and forces the vines to dig deep into the valley floor. Grapes were gently hand-harvested before sunrise. After crush, they were cold-fermented in stainless steel tanks.Twenty-five percent was aged in French oak barrels were it underwent malolactic fermentation. The barrels received regular bâtonage, or barrel stirring, which contributes to a full body with a creamy complexity on the palate.

VINEYARD DETAILS

Soil profile: Clay loam & gravel

Aspect: Level

Elevation: 300 feet 

Year Planted: 1981

Clone: 4

Rootstock: AXR1

Trellis: Cordon

HARVEST

September 2023

COMPOSITION

93% Chardonnay, 7% French Colombard

ANALYSES

pH 3.23

Acidity .68 grams/100 ml

Alcohol 14.7% 

Sugar .01% 

PRODUCTION

400 cases

CELLARING

Optimal storage temperature 55-60° F (13-16° C)