* 2006 Chardonnay, Nielson Vineyard

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Winemaking Notes
This small bottling of Chardonnay comes from a vineyard I have worked with for more than 20 years. Planted by pioneer, Uriel Nielson in 1964, this property is Santa Barbara County’s oldest vineyard. The old vines are especially expressive, so a minimalist approach to winemaking allows the character and integrity of the fruit to shine through. The wine was 100% barrel fermented with native yeasts, and underwent 100% malolactic fermentation. This Chardonnay aged sur lie for 10 months in French oak, with 13% new oak in the barrel mix.

Tasting Notes
This Chardonnay is silky and elegant with fresh aromas of gala apple, lemon blossom and honeysuckle, which will gradually evolve into aromas of honey, pear and hazelnut as the wine develops. A rich mouth feel and opulent mid-palate are beautifully balanced by bright natural acidity, a trademark of Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay. The wine culminates in a silky, seamless finish.