Noble Vines 446 Chardonnay

Description

”For centuries, vintners have singled out individual vines that produce exceptional grapes. A select few have stood the test of time and have been granted numbers to distinguish them. Noble Vines.BEHIND THE NUMBERS Famed Chardonnay vine selection 4, which originated in Napa Valley, is distinguished from other Chardonnay selections by its incredible range of flavors – from apple, to citrus, to tropical fruit such as pineapple and mangowhich vary from location to location.Chardonnay selection 4 does especially well in our Monterey vineyard block 46. Hence, the designation 446 on our label. Monterey is one of the coolest wine regions in California, so the Chardonnay grapes ripen very slowly for more vibrant flavors and rich texture. Our winery is located right in the vineyarda luxury usually reserved only for extravagant, boutique wineries. This facility helps us honor and preserve Chardonnay 4s legendary quality. No wonder 446 is a perennial favorite. -Charlie Hossom, Winegrower, Noble VinesWINEMAKING To preserve Chardonnay 446s balance of bright acidity and lush tropical flavors it is best to crush the grapes immediately after pickingwhich we can do because our winery adjoins our vineyard. 446 is a Monterey wine all the way; we harvested a little riper than others because we can run the grapes into our cooled winery so quickly. Winemaker James Ewart knows these grapes well he has walked the vineyard and made wine here for the better part of two decades. James gently pressed the fruit, then fermented part of the juice in stainless steel and part in oak barrels, according to each lots acidity level. After fermentation, a portion of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation for added body and complexity.TASTING NOTES 446 Chardonnay showcases vibrant aromas of ripe peach, citrus, honey and a touch of vanilla, wrapped around juicy flavors of tropical fruits, honeydew melon and lemon zest, and framed by slight hints of butter and spice on the finish. Medium-bodied with a creamy mid-palate, this wine can be enjoyed on its own or with soft cheeses, roast fowl or pasta or salads.” – Noble Vines