Raymond R Collection Chardonnay 2009
Winemaker Notes
Our 2009 R Collection Chardonnay is a beautifully crisp Chardonnay primarily fermented in stainless steel tanks, which provides a nice alternative to the heavier oaked Chardonnays. The R Collection Chardonnay opens with notes of fragrant floral perfume and ripe tropical fruit. On the palate, juicy peaches and dried apricots mingle with the bright flavors of grapefruit and the delicate essence of lemongrass. This medium-bodied Chardonnay is well balanced, with a kiss of oak rounding out the fresh acidity of the fruit, and unfolding into a smooth, long-lasting finish. Recommended pairings include Caesar salad with shrimp, soft creamy cheeses, grilled halibut or salmon, and a variety of broth-based soups with fresh French bread.
Raymond Vineyards, founded in 1970, is one of the Napa Valley’s pioneers and great estates. Arriving to Napa in 1933, the Raymond family became deeply connected to the valley’s winemaking origins. In 1970, they established a 90-acre estate in Rutherford that now comprises 300 acres in Rutherford, St. Helena and Jameson Canyon. Five generations of the Raymond family created a Napa icon, with an enduring reputation for elegant wines with a beautiful balance of finesse, power and complexity. Today, inspired by the vision of Proprietor Jean-Charles Boisset, Raymond is a dynamic destination dedicated to inspiring its guests’ passion for fine wine in an environment of exploration, creativity, and elegant whimsicality, where each in a series of diverse experiences progresses visitors into another world of discovery and exceptional wines. Further, Raymond’s Rutherford and St. Helena estate vineyards are certified organic and Biodynamic, and 100% of the winery’s power comes from renewable solar energy.
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.