2020 FEL Chardonnay, Savoy Vineyard, Anderson Valley
available
This wine represents a turning point in our ongoing quest to illuminate the greatness of Savoy Chardonnay. We have embraced the time-honored notion that a wine’s transition from barrels – both neutral and new – to stainless-steel partway through its life crystallizes and amplifies its best qualities. The result is an aromatic profile of oyster shell, lemon curd, and struck flint, mingled with a purity of California sunshine: pineapple, mango, lime zest, quince paste. The palate is rich and layered, but structured with steely edges and a crunchy texture, and bursting with flavors of pear tart, peach pit, and fleshy Charentais melon.
Wine Specs
Vintage
2020
Varietal
Chardonnay
Appellation
Anderson Valley
Vineyard Designation
Savoy Vineyard
Aging
The wine aged sur lie for 16 months.
Bottling Date
January 2022
Alcohol %
13.8
Wine Enthusiast
94
Wine Profile
Vineyard Notes
Our estate, Savoy Vineyard, long recognized as a benchmark vineyard in Anderson Valley, is located in the “Deep End” of the valley, west of the town of Philo. The maritime influence and moderate daytime temperatures contribute to the wine’s balance, acidity, and elegant flavor profile. This wine is made from the Prosser clone of Chardonnay.
Production Notes
The fruit was harvested on August 31st at 22.9 Brix, whole-cluster pressed to tank, and fermented in a combination of barriques and puncheons, with a total of 35% new oak. After six months, a portion of the wine was transferred to stainless steel drums for the remainder of its elevage.
Winemaker Notes
This wine represents a turning point in our ongoing quest to illuminate the greatness of Savoy Chardonnay. We have embraced the time-honored notion that a wine’s transition from barrels – both neutral and new – to stainless-steel partway through its life crystallizes and amplifies its best qualities. The result is an aromatic profile of oyster shell, lemon curd, and struck flint, mingled with a purity of California sunshine: pineapple, mango, lime zest, quince paste. The palate is rich and layered, but structured with steely edges and a crunchy texture, and bursting with flavors of pear tart, peach pit, and fleshy Charentais melon.