Description
Vintage The 2015 vintage was a very low rainfall year with an overall warm spring and summer. Early in the growing season it was warm and dry, which initiated bud break sooner than usual, and was followed by a bit of cool weather during bloom. Summer brought higher temperatures, but the afternoon winds created perfect ripening conditions for the Chardonnay and preserved the fresh acidity that is a hallmark of Arroyo Seco fruit. Harvest began about two weeks earlier than normal on September 8th and was completed by October 12th.Vineyards The vines for our J. Lohr Estates Riverstone Chardonnay are grown primarily on Elder loam soils underlain by riverstones deposited over thousands of years by the Arroyo Seco River. These stones limit soil depth from one to four feet, although roots are found at greater depths. This unique combination of sandy loam and cobblestone soil keeps the vines vegetative growth and fruit in balance, while the cool climate and winds of the Salinas Valley extend the growing season – retaining the natural grape acids and intense varietal character of Chardonnay. Our Riverstone Chardonnay is now comprised of nine Chardonnay clones – 4, 5, 17, 76, 95, 96, 548, 809 and Hyde-Wente – which bring a complexity of flavors, textures and acidities.Winemaker’s Comments The 2015 Riverstone Chardonnay exhibits youthful hues of light to medium straw. The enticing aromas are reminiscent of peaches, meyer lemon, yellow floral, baking spices, honey and cocoa. Those aromas echo on the palate and are complemented by fresh orange and apricot balanced with creamy texture from aging sur lie. Flavors of creme brulee and a touch of oak can be found on the long finish. Kristen Barnhisel, winemaker, white wineFood Pairing This wine can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes, such as salmon in a creamy dijon sauce, chicken with mushroom sauce, or nicoise salad with a citrus vinaigrette.Technical NotesMaturation Barrel-fermented and aged 7 to 9 months in new to fourth-fill oak barrels. Barrels were stirred every two weeks until pump-out.Wine ListA fresh, youthful and textured Chardonnay with flavors of white peach, floral, citrus, baking spices and honey. – J. Lohr
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