2006 Sonoma Valley Chardonnay

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Tasting Notes

On appearance, this Chardonnay is the color of golden straw. The first nose delivers notes of vanilla and lemon zest. After a swirl, the deeper notes of honey, pear and quince become evident. On the palate, delicate flavors of lemon crème, white peach and pear progress into honeysuckle and butterscotch.

For a small portion of the blend, Winemaker François Cordesse used fruit that experienced some botrytis, or “noble rot”, prized in France. One hundred percent of the blend went through malolactic fermentation, but careful vinification preserved freshness and prevented any heavy characteristics from developing.

Since 1977, Matanzas Creek Winery has been focused on creating balanced, elegant wines that are regarded as Sonoma County classics. Chardonnay has long been one of our signature varietals, and the 2006 vintage is a fine example of what can be achieved when artisan winemaking techniques are applied to the marvelous bounty of Mother Nature.

Acclaim

Double Gold Medal - 2008 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo International Wine Competition
Gold Medal - 2008 Sonoma County Harvest Fair Wine Competition

Source

Fruit for this wine was sourced primarily from Estate-owned vineyards in Carneros and Bennett Valley. Both of these areas provide a cooler growing experience for Chardonnay, which allows the grapes to ripen slowly and develop a higher acid profile. From its ancient volcanic past, Bennett Valley soil is predominately basalt, which imparts mineral and smoke characteristics.

Production Statistics

100% Chardonnay
62% Bennett Valley, 32% Carneros, 6% Alexander Valley
14. 3% Alcohol, . 3 TA, 1 .9 pH
8 months barrel aged in 1/3 new, 1/3 one-year old, 1/3 two-year old French oak