The Wine
Miljenko “Mike” Grgich has been called “The King of Chardonnay” since the winery began in 1977, and you can taste why in this classically-styled wine. We did not allow the Chardonnay to undergo malolactic fermentation, preserving its natural acidity. The wine displays ripe peach, mango and tropical flavors, with a note of minerality. Enjoy with fresh seafood, roasted chicken, grilled pork, and creamy cheeses.
Vintage
For the third year in a row Napa Valley experienced an exceptional vintage, aided by the drought conditions. Budbreak came slightly early, and the modest temperatures through the growing season helped preserve moisture. Julys relatively low temperatures coupled with high relative humidity slowed down sugar accumulation to achieve perfect ripeness with lower alcohol. Harvest started and ended about two weeks earlier than normal, producing superb quality.
Vineyard
Our Chardonnay thrives in our American Canyon and Carneros vineyards in the southern tip of Napa Valley, near San Pablo Bay, which spills into the San Francisco Bay. The cool maritime breezes and morning fog allow the grapes to slowly ripen to develop complex flavors while maintaining a pleasing natural acidity that is impossible to achieve in warmer areas. We farm all of our vineyards naturally, without artificial pesticides or herbicides, and they are certified organic.
Winemaker's Notes
Alcohol
14.1%
Fermentation
indigenous yeast
Harvest date
Aug. 19 – Sept. 10, 2014
Sugar
23.1 Brix average
Bottling date
August 2015
Total acid
6.7 g/L
pH
3.30
Blend
100% Chardonnay
