Bonterra Organically Grown Chardonnay 2003

OBSERVATIONS ON THE 2003 VINTAGE
Strange, weird and wonderful capture the roller coaster of the 2003 growing season. It started early, stayed late, and along the way brought upside down weather patterns that found days warm when they should be cool, and cool when they should be warm. Bud break for Chardonnay began to creep out in the warmest hillsides in February following an exceptionally mild winter. We had rain and cold in April, warm May days, showers in June and thunderstorms in July. Go figure. While we worried about rain during harvest, we found instead a beautiful Indian Summer that let grapes hang and develop full flavors, with higher acids that lead to this vintage having a bright, crisp showing that should be very pleasing. Flavors were even more concentrated as most vineyards found yields for Chardonnay 20-30% below average, allowing vines to concentrate energy in the fruit. Judicious shoot thinning and the careful eye that comes with organic farming led, in the end, to one of the most memorable vintages of the new century so far.

TASTING NOTES FROM WINEMAKER ROBERT BLUE
Our style continues to evolve toward a more international benchmark, with fruit forward expressions characterized by a lighter touch of oak. It's new style Chardonnay, which captures the best of the vintage. Classic Mendocino aromas of crisp green apples are followed with hints of toasty oak spice. The Dijon clone offers up definitive baked apple notes, with a touch of vanilla. Rounding out first impressions are lemony citrus tones that add complexity and brightness to the wine. Once in the mouth, you'll find this Chardonnay to be well balanced, with the higher acids predominant in this vintage providing a solid backbone. A creamy mid-palate gives way to a slightly caramelized flavor leading to an extended, lingering, bright fruit finish. It's a multi-dimensional wine made more flavorful by the wonderful organic fruit we're privileged to farm.

THE BONTERRA PHILOSOPHY
We honor the land by farming organically, creating rich soils that provide healthy vines the opportunity to deliver wonderfully flavorful fruit. With every sip of Bonterra wine, you can taste our natural commitment. There's no other way to fully capture the expression of our Mendocino terroir.
David Koball, Vineyard Manager