The grape source is Long Vineyards located in the West Dry Creek area of Sonoma County. This hillside vineyard is planted with the Wente clone of Chardonnay, which produces small berries and low yields. The soil structure is clay underlain with shale and sandstone. Long Vineyard is adjacent to the Dry Creek River. The prevailing morning and evening coastal fog pattern insures a long, cool growing season, resulting in grapes possessing superior flavor and varietal definition.

Winemaking and Cellar Practices:

The grapes were hand-picked and sorted, crushed and gently pressed. The juice was fermented for ten months in fifty percent new French oak barrels. The wine was racked, clarified by bentonite fining, and bottled without filtration in August 1995.

Characteristics:

Long Vineyards traditionally produces wines which are intensely flavored, perfumed and powerful. Rich varietal character is combined with exotic essences reminiscent of orange blossoms, fresh tangerines, grilled pine nuts, etc.

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Last modified: June 29, 2005