2016 Searby Vineyard Chardonnay
Sold Out - watch here for our new vintage in Summer 2021
Aromas of Asian pear and crushed white rose petals entice on the nose, and notes of passion fruit, sweet spice and lemon tart combine into a complex, evolving palate. The lively, crisp minerality invokes the elegance of the cool-climate Russian River Valley. With an opulent mouthfeel and precisely balanced acidity, this is a Chardonnay to drink now and with good aging potential.
Searby Vineyard is located in the exceptionally cool Green Valley sub-AVA of the Russian River Valley and contains some of the oldest Chardonnay vines in Sonoma County, still bearing plentiful fruit. Planted in 1972 on a gentle west-facing slope, this ten-acre vineyard is known for its dry-farmed, sandy loam soils and the cool maritime influence of the Pacific.
Wine Specs
Vintage
2016
Varietal
Chardonnay
Appellation
Russian River Valley
Vineyard Designation
Searby Vineyard
pH
3.56
Aging
15 months in 100% French oak (30% new)
Residual Sugar
1.0 g/L
Alcohol %
13.5
Wine Enthusiast
91
Wine Profile
Production Notes
Hand-picked fruit from the 45-year-old Searby Vineyard was barrel-fermented with native yeasts followed by 100% malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged sur lie for 15 months in French oak.
Winemaker Notes
The 2016 vintage in the Russian River Valley has been widely acclaimed. An early harvest produced smaller berries with concentrated flavors and good balance. The growing season was mild and dry and the wines offer intense color and aromas.