Excelsior Chardonnay

Description

VINEYARDS Excelsiors vineyards are characterized by limestone-rich calcareous clay soils, which are ideal for producing fine wine. No other region in the world south of the equator has the concentration of limestone in its soils that Robertson does. A portion of the Chardonnay also comes from broken shale, which provides the wine with a stone fruit character. The vines range in age from 320 years and enjoy cool afternoon breezes that sweep through Robertson Valley in the summer, providing natural air conditioning in the vineyards on hot days.VINTAGE 2015 was an excellent vintage, and also one of the earliest on record! It was one of the driest summers in recent memory, so there was very little disease pressure. The grapes were exceptionally healthy and concentrated, resulting in wines with intense fruit flavors.VINIFICATION AND MATURATION The grapes were hand harvested in the cool, early mornings, at ripeness levels of 2324.5 Brix. 75% of the wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the fresh citrus flavors. The remaining 25% was fermented and aged in French oak, which lends a subtle toasty nuance. Both portions were aged on their lees for three months. A small percentage of Viognier was added, contributing additional richness and a lush texture.TASTING NOTES This crisp, mouthwatering bottling is a blend of Excelsiors three best Chardonnay blocks. It displays lively flavors of green apple, citrus, and pineapple on a full, creamy palate. Traces of peach, orange blossom and delicate toasty notes combine with a mineral edge to round out this versatile everyday sipper, a consistent crowd pleaser. – Excelsior