Stags Leap Winery Chardonnay 2006
Chardonnay
from Napa Valley, California
winemaker's notes:
A constant presence in the vineyard,
Winemaker Kevin Morrisey walks the vine rows
every morning as harvest approaches, seeking
out blocks with intense flavors, optimum acidity,
and perfect sweetness. The fruit is hand picked
and rushed to the winery where it is whole cluster pressed.
In order to preserve the minerality, fresh
acidity and clean fruit characteristics, Kevin did
not put the wine through malolactic fermentation.
The wine was aged on the lees in 100 percent
French oak (30 percent new) for eight months and
was stirred every two weeks during maturation.
Luscious aromas of white peach, tropical fruits,
spice and honeysuckle greet the nose as this
balanced Chardonnay presents flavors of
lemon, pineapple and green apple on the palate,
and a creamy mouthfeel from aging on the lees.
Pleasing floral and spice notes from the French
oak carry rich fruit flavors through for a juicy,
long finish.
