2016 Estate Chardonnay (Museum Release)

This Chardonnay opens with notes of white peach, citrus blossom, and subtle oak spice. The palate is vibrant, showcasing stone fruits, lemon zest, and a creamy texture, balanced by crisp acidity.

Hand-harvested grapes were gently pressed, with fermentation and maturation in French oak barrels (25% new) for 9 months. Regular bâtonnage was employed to build mouthfeel and complexity.

A dry winter and spring, coupled with record warmth in October, led to an early harvest. Despite a hot January, vine canopies remained healthy, resulting in a compressed harvest. Chardonnay from this vintage is considered good, though not reaching the heights of exceptional years like 2011 and 2014