2005 CHARDONNAY - RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY / WESTSIDE FARMS

The grapes were hand picked at 23.7 degrees brix of sugar in the cool morning hours. The fruit was then hand sorted and whole cluster pressed. The solids in the juice were allowed to settle overnight before the “clean” juice was transferred to a combination of new, 1 year old and 2 year old French oak barrels. This wine was entirely barrel fermented with select yeast strains used to preserve its aromatics and fresh character. As with all of our Chardonnays, this wine was aged sur lie for 10 months and hand stirred weekly to add richness and complexity. Malolactic fermentation was encouraged in 100% of the barrels. This is a generous wine of great balance and fruit expression.

This 2005 Westside Farms Chardonnay exhibits delicate aromas of apple blossom, fresh apricots, citrus, and a nuance of toasty oak perfume on the nose. The fruit character deepens in the mouth, creating continuity between the nose and the palate. The structure holds firm with ample acidity, yet retains richness and suppleness. Its crisp structure and fresh finish make it a tremendous accompaniment to a wide variety of foods. Try with grilled, herb marinated sea bass on a bed of white beans.

Growers Pam and Ron Kaiser produce premium quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay on their 40 acre vineyard on Westside Road along the banks of the Russian River. The Westside Farms is a classic expression of Russian River Valley Chardonnay, with green apple and citrus flavors. The vineyard enjoys cool evenings, and its soils consist of deep, river-deposited sandy loam which yields elegant, intense fruit.