William Hill Estate : Napa Valley

2005 Napa Valley Reserve Chardonnay

Grape Source

This 100% Chardonnay is a good example of cool climate Carneros Chardonnay from Buchli Station and high elevation Chardonnay of Atlas Peak, in the Napa Valley.  All of the grapes were hand-harvested at night from September 18, through October 15, 2003 at an average 24.7º Brix.

Winemaking

The Chardonnay grapes were 100% hand harvested at night when temperatures are cooler, between September 20 and October 25.  The grapes were gently pressed as whole clusters, and the juice was 100% barrel fermented to add depth and complexity.  The wine underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged on the lees in 85% new French oak with frequent batonage for nine months. Vineyard lots were kept separate throughout the aging process, and the final blend was determined after evaluating each lot individually.

Winemaker notes

Our 2005 Reserve Chardonnay is complex and layered, with juicy nectarine, mandarin orange and lychee fruit on the nose that carry through to a palate enhanced with spicy oak nuances.  The wine is rich and dense, but not heavy.  It is a balanced wine with a mineral essence that extends through the long, lingering finish.

Food Recommendations

This wine pairs easily with rich, earthy dishes like wild mushroom risotto.  The perfect complements to citrus and butter elements of oven-roasted sea bass with blood orange beurre blanc.