Cline Pinot Gris-Chardonnay 2002

VINEYARDS The Pinot Gris/Chardonnay is as 67% Pinot Gris and 33% Chardonnay blend. The grapes grown for the Pinot Gris/Chardonnay are from the cool climate of Southern Sonoma County. This region known for high-quality grapes that bathe in morning fog are gently warmed by the afternoon sun creating a long growing season giving the grapes time to mature and fully develop its fruit. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FERMENTATION AND AGING Cline Cellars Pinot Gris/Chardonnay is gently pressed using the whole cluster technique to extract only the purest free-run juice. Each varietal was inoculated with different yeasts strains to enhance the fruit character of the varietal. The juice was cold fermented to dryness and we chose to block malolactic fermentation to maintain it's lively acidity. The Chardonnay portion (33%) was barrel fermented and barrel aged for 2-3 months in new and used French oak barrels to add roundness to the wine. After numerous blending trials, the final blend was selected based upon its character and appeal to the palate. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WINEMAKER'S COMMENTS Continuing in our maverick tradition. Cline Cellars releases this unique blend of Pinot Gris and Chardonnay. This wine is to be enjoyed after a hard day of work or a relaxing day by the pool. Enjoy this wine by alone or with light fare such as fresh seasonal fruit, a vegetable crudite or chicken-apple sausage.