Chardonnay | Signature Selection v. 2018 SONOMA COUNTY, DRY CREEK VALLEY
In the Vineyard:
The Chardonnay fruit is sourced from four vineyards located at the southern end of Dry Creek Valley. The vineyards benefit from the cool microclimate and alluvial soils near the Russian River and produce wines of exceptional fruit and balance, culminating in Chardonnay of great character. Spring rain and perfect growing conditions during the 2018 growing season offered ideal conditions for development in the grapes and, as a result, they reflect bright acidity, high intensity of aromas and excellent quality.
Winemaking:
The winemaking goal is simple: showcase the distinctive fruit of each varietal. This focus on fruit is particularly important in creating the Signature Selection Chardonnay. After the grapes were picked between mid-September and the first part of October we use stainless steel tanks to ferment 85% of the wine, capturing the fresh fruit flavors. The balance was separately barrel fermented in American oak barrels and aged for eight months before being combined. The barrel fermentation and secondary or “malolactic” fermentation added some creamy notes giving a boost of complexity to the finished wine.
Tasting Notes:
Pineapple, mango and peach aromas lead to juicy fruit flavors of citrus, sweet spices, pineapple, and toasty oak notes. The blend of the two Chardonnay lots adds both fruit forward qualities and a creamy texture. Highlighted by bright acidity, the wine finishes clean and refreshing. Drink now—no aging required.
Technical Information
APPELLATION: Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County
BARREL AGING: 15% of the blend was fermented and aged in American oak for 8 months ALCOHOL: 13.5%
pH: 3.37
TOTAL ACIDITY: .660g/100ml
Pedroncelli Winery has come a long way since 1927, when John Pedroncelli, Sr. purchased vineyards and a small winery in Sonoma County's Dry Creek Valley. Today, the vineyards are planted to premium grape varieties, the winery is filled with modern equipment, and wines bearing the Pedroncelli name grace tables from coast to coast. But two elements from 70 years ago remain unchanged: the exceptional place the Pedroncelli family grows grapes, and the family's dedication to making fine wines.
