Storrs Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay 2015
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2016-
Wilfred
Wong
Over the next six years, they prepped the land for the organically-farmed vineyard that they planted in the summer of 2007. Their estate vineyard which they call Hidden Springs consists of two clones of Chardonnay – Clones 4 and 17; and five clones of Pinot Noir including the Dijon clones of 115, 667, 828 as well as Clone 2A and the Pommard clone. They are currently considering Bio-dynamic certification to recognize their conservation efforts on behalf of wildlife, soil and water on their farm and their flock of Olde English Babydoll sheep that graze their vineyard during the winter months to promote a more balanced, self-sustaining system.
One of the most popular and versatile white wine grapes, Chardonnay offers a wide range of flavors and styles depending on where it is grown and how it is made. While it tends to flourish in most environments, Chardonnay from its Burgundian homeland produces some of the most remarkable and longest lived examples. California produces both oaky, buttery styles and leaner, European-inspired wines. Somm Secret—The Burgundian subregion of Chablis, while typically using older oak barrels, produces a bright style similar to the unoaked style. Anyone who doesn't like oaky Chardonnay would likely enjoy Chablis.
A rugged and topographically diverse cool-climate appellation with a rich history, the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA stretches from Half Moon Bay, just south of San Francisco, to the northern border of Monterey County. Elevations range from 800 feet to upwards of 3,000 and microclimates vary substantially depending on which side of the mountains the vineyards lie; cool ocean winds and fog play an important role here. This can be a challenging region in which to grow grapes, but it is well worth the effort. Santa Cruz Mountains wines are noted for balanced acidity levels, often showing great aging potential. Wine has been made here since the 1800s, most notably from the legendary Ridge Vineyards, whose Monte Bello vineyard garners international admiration.
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are the stars of this region, while Merlot and Zinfandel also perform quite well. Organic and sustainable vineyard practices are becoming increasingly common.