2007 CHARDONNAY - RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY / ROCHIOLI - ALLEN VINEYARDS

2007 was another example of our region’s remarkable consistency. The short rainy season with less than usual amounts of rain, coupled with the warm spring temperatures led to an early bud break. Subtle spring heat spikes and wind conditions contributed to varying degrees of “shatter” in the vineyard. “Shatter” is when flowers bloom on the vine but don’t get pollinated, thus preventing their development into berries. This shatter, together with the previous year’s large yields, led to a relatively light crop which in turn resulted in smaller berries showing very intense flavor and great color. Once bud break occurred, our weather steadied, making for near perfect ripening conditions which lasted all the way through harvest. It certainly appears that the 2007 vintage from the Russian River Valley will turn out to be one of significant depth and concentration.

The 2007 Rochioli-Allen Chardonnay shows a lemon color with bright clarity and medium intensity in appearance. The nose shows medium plus intensity with developing aromas of lemon panna cotta, Fuji apple, fresh fig, key lime and banana. Orange blossom, vanilla cream, a toasty leesy character and mineral notes of chalk dust and gravel show layers of complexity. Refreshing acidity, well-defined fruit and a supple, creamy texture show through in this expressive and well-structured knockout.

The grapes for this outstanding Chardonnay come from the renowned 130-acre Rochioli vineyard in the heart of the Russian River Valley and the Allen vineyard, which is a contiguous property to the south, planted and farmed by the Rochioli family.