Ghost Pines Chardonnay 2009
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Origin: 64% Sonoma County, 22% Monterey County, 11% Napa County
Other Vintages
2006-
Parker
Robert
Ghost Pines knows no boundaries. Without the restriction of traditional winegrowing boundaries, Ghost Pines wines are sourced solely for quality and flavor from wherever the best fruit can be found. Though sourcing changes from year to year, this philosophy delivers wines of consistent quality with a distinct combination of richness, smoothness and balance that could never be mistaken for ordinary. Ghost Pines embodies the progressive spirit of California winemaking and inspires a sense of individuality.
Named after the Ghost Pines Vineyard in eastern Napa County, here the indigenous grey pines loom mysteriously along the hillsides. Native to California, the Ghost Pine can adapt to a variety of climates and thrives in various soils, much like grapevines. This vineyard has been a primary fruit source since the very first vintage.
California’s most praised white wine, Chardonnay is also the state’s most planted white grape variety. Diverse terrain and microclimates allow for an incredible range of wine styles.
Chardonnay planted in the cooler, coastal zones takes on bright characteristics like lemon zest, key lime, green apple and wet flint. For this style, look to the chilly Sonoma Coast, Carneros, Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Lucia Highlands and Edna Valley.
The inland zones of California’s coast, such as the Russian River, Sonoma, Napa and Livermore Valleys maintain a more Goldilocks-esque climate where both styles go. Early picking retains acidity and creates a leaner style but leaving the grapes to hang creates an approachable Chardonnay, balancing richness and finesse.
Chardonnay also plays a major part in the sparkling wine production of the Anderson Valley and Carneros.