Merryvale Starmont Chardonnay 2001

We have used the fruit from many fine Chardonnay vineyards to make this wine -- from the cool Carneros in both the Napa and Sonoma regions, a number of sites in southern and mid Napa Valley and a Russian River Valley vineyard. Each site provides subtly different character to the final blend. Native yeast fermentation in French oak barrels, malolactic fermentation and barrel aging on the lees were all employed to add to the wine's richness and long finish. The wine is round and silky with flavors reminiscent of apple, peach and pear.