William Hill Estate : Napa Valley

2003 Napa Valley Chardonnay

Grape Source

This 2003 Chardonnay is primarily from the Carneros Buchli Station vineyard and from the Atlas Peak AVA, both in the Napa Valley.  All of the grapes  were hand-harvested at night in late September and early October 2003, at an average 24.5º Brix.

Vintage

The 2003 growing season was characterized by many as an erratic one, with unusual early heat spikes in March and one of the wettest Aprils on record. A long summer with cyclical temperature variations allowed the fruit to develop desired complexity and late autumn heat provided fruit with tremendous intensity and depth.

Winemaking

This Chardonnay was fermented in a combination of new (20%) and used (80%) French (95%) and American (5%) oak barrels for 8 months.  The wine underwent 100% malolactic fermentation to enhance texture and add a desirable buttery nuance.

Winemaker notes

Our Napa Valley Chardonnay is distinguished by a smooth, creamy and bright fruit-forward style. The cooler climates of the Carneros and Atlas Peak appellations provide a varied palette of flavors, along with firm acidity that stands up to malolactic fermentation while maintaining crispness. The wine is gently oak-aged and left on the lees, allowing the fruit to shine. 

The 2003 exhibits intense tropical fruit and buttery pear aromas, a smooth,  creamy texture and a mouthful of bright citrus, Meyer lemon and mango.  Medium-bodied, the wine is tantalizing on the palate with a crisp, clean finish.

Food Recommendations

Enjoy the 2003 William Hill Winery Napa Valley Chardonnay with many seafood dishes, such as sautéed halibut with a fresh lemon and butter sauce, grilled shrimp or salmon, or fresh crab cakes. Try it simply with pasta salad, delicately sprinkled with aged Parmesan, Asiago or Gruyere cheese.