The grapes are sourced from the Beard vineyard in the Yountville District of the Napa Valley. 100% Chardonnay grapes were barrel fermented in a mixture of stainless steel and second year French oak chardonney barrels. The wine rested on its lees for a period of 6 months. Total time of oak contact was 9 months.
Tasting Notes:
The 2015 Alta Winery Chardonnay has a compelling nose of lemon blossoms, bananas, and pineapples layered above clove and allspice and the perfume of toasted oak. In the mouth, the oak integrates seamlessly with tropical fruit and pineapple flavors, while the acidity brightens the fruit as it stretches out across the palate. This wine has good complexity, with a crisp mouth feel, hints of citric zest and tropical fruit creaminess. The palate is warmed by the oak influence, which works well with the flavors evolving over time into spiced pears. The wine was made for early consumption, but the acidity and aromatic sophistication should last for up to a decade.