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The Vineyard ~
Our Napa Valley Chardonnay comes from two
cool climate sites which pair fluidly to produce an elegant,
food-friendly wine. Located at the far southern end of Napa Valley,
between American Canyon and Carneros, Green Island Vineyard offers
intense fruit from an 11-year-old Robert Young clone selection grown in
gravelly soil. This vineyard is actually closer to the cool influence
of San Pablo Bay than Carneros, producing grapes with a long, bright
flavor profile. Adding depth and sophistication to our 2005 Napa
Chardonnay, we have included grapes from the coveted Haines Vineyard in
Coombsville. With low-yielding, 33-year-old Old Wente Clone vines,
Haines produces nuanced fruit filled with aromatics and structured
layers. The Wine ~
The grapes from both the
Haines and the Green Island vineyards were picked at peak ripeness.
Pressing was done as whole clusters, utilizing a membrane press to
gently dejuice the grapes without breakage of skins, seeds, or stems.
The juice was settled for 24 hours and racked to barrel for 100 percent
barrel fermentation. Fermentation was conducted to promote long, slow
development maximizing the fruit flavors. In addition, a selection of
distinctive yeasts isolates was used to add complexity to the wine.
Upon completion of primary fermentation, the barrels were stirred
weekly to promote the breakdown of the yeasts adding additional layers
as well as enhancing the creamy texture of the wine. To contribute a
final array of flavors and subtle accents the wine underwent malolactic
fermentation and was aged in a mix of French oak barrels from several
coopers. To ensure the hands-on attention to detail that defines
winemaking excellence, only 640 cases were produced. Tasting Notes ~
The
2005 Destino Napa Valley Chardonnay is a lush, well-balanced wine that
offers rich, concentrated flavors of pear and honeydew melon
complemented by vibrant bright citrus notes.
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