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2008 Harmony Chardonnay
This Chardonnay features a special section of our estate vineyard known as Katie’s Acre. Replanted in 2005, the block includes four different clones of Chardonnay including two recent imports from France and two selections with a long heritage in California. First the French, clone “809” has incredible floral aromas and clone “76” has long enjoyed favor in Burgundy. We hand selected the California budwood from Larry Hyde’s vineyard in Carneros, which traces its heritage back to the original Wente plantings. We actually used to have almost entirely “Wente” Chardonnay in the 1970’s. The combination of these clones and some thoughtful winemaking has produced a beautiful wine.
Vintage
- 2008
Varietal
-
100% Chardonnay
Appellation
- Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley
Estate Vineyard
-
100% Main Ranch
Harvest
- September 5-15
Oak
- 11 months (20% new) French
Alcohol
- 14.4%
Bottled
- August 2009
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The growing season in 2008 began with more spring frost events than we have experienced in decades. You could find the crew two out of every three nights during the month of April in the vineyard “frost-protecting”. Rainfall wasn’t as generous as in past years either. However the summer growing season was splendid, followed by a beautiful fall that provided the perfect finish for the vintage.
The WineBright straw yellow in color with lush, expressive aromas of peach, lemon meringue and honey lifted by a mineral quality. Smooth in texture, with the classic Trefethen brightness and apple, pear and crème brûlée flavors deepened by a kiss of oak. Firm, yet seductive in the long, persistent finish.
Food AffinitiesEnjoy this elegant Chardonnay with scallops, lobster, chicken or pasta with a Meyer lemon crème sauce.
Accolades
92 Points “Achieving great loveliness in its rich and balanced blend of ripe apples, creme brûlée oakiness and seamlessly laid on enlivening acids… this wine has both depth and manners.”
Connoisseurs’ Guide to California Wine
