William Hill Estate : Napa Valley

2001 Napa Valley Reserve Chardonnay

Grape Source

100% Chardonnay from the Carneros (82%) and Atlas Peak (18%) appellations of Napa Valley.  All of the grapes were hand-harvested between September 13 and October 1, 2001, at an average 23.8º Brix.

Vintage

A dry cool winter brought spring weather to wine country in early March 2001. The warmer temperatures promoted early budbreak that, coupled with a series of short hot spells, led to an early harvest for most white varietals. The northern end of the state experienced the premature onset of autumn as well which cooled the vines and allowed red varietals a much longer hang time.  Overall, tonnage was reduced and flavors were beautifully concentrated.

Winemaking

All of the wine was fermented and underwent malolactic fermentation in the barrel. The wine was aged on the lees for seven months, stirred twice monthly. The wine was aged in a combination of new and one-year-old 60-gallon Darguard et Jaegle and François Frères French oak barrels.

Winemaker notes

Our Napa Valley Reserve Chardonnay represents meticulous vineyard selection and barrel aging-- the foundation of the William Hill Winery style of distinctive flavor and fruit. Carneros, in the southern reaches of Napa Valley, is known for cool nighttime temperatures, well-drained soils and afternoon breezes, yielding exceptionally forward Chardonnay fruit with distinct tropical nuances. Atlas Peak Chardonnay, grown high in the eastern mountains of the Napa Valley, develops appealing stone fruit flavors and enhances the body and texture of the wine.

 Prominent aromas of apple, pineapple and sweet oak give way to forward tropical fruit flavors highlighted by toasty oak and spice balanced with a note of acidity.  Full malolactic fermentation contributes to a wonderful silky mouthfeel with a hint of butterscotch on the lingering finish.

Food Recommendations

Shellfish, seafood and poultry are superb matches for this elegant Chardonnay.  With its supple oak flavors, this wine is also an excellent companion for veal, pork, velvety risotto or pasta dishes that feature rich cream-based sauces.