2005 Edna Valley Chardonnay
WINE DETAILS
The grapes for the 2005 HANGTIME Chardonnay from Edna
Valley were on the vine for a minimum of 140 days. Cool evenings and slow, steady
ripening produced concentrated flavors in the grapes leaving Tony Coltrin, our
winemaker, the perfect canvass for a lively Chardonnay. The wine was barrel
fermented and went through partial malolactic fermentation creating layers of
fresh, crisp fruit balanced by creamy, round notes. Aging the wine sur lie for 8
months in French oak, 33% new barrels, also added to the creamy taste and
texture. Overall, the wine explodes with flavors of green apple and baked pears with
a finish of toasted crème brulée.
APPELLATION
Located in San Luis Obispo County, California, Edna Valley was
approved as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in May 1982 because of unique
topography and grape-growing characteristics. Edna Valley is an east-west oriented
valley that is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the San Luis mountain
range to the northwest, the Santa Lucia mountain range to the northeast, and lowlying
hills to the south. Maritime climate and soils consisting of clay, volcanic rock
and marine deposits all contribute to distinct characteristics in the wine. The
volcanic deposits come from an eroding chain of 14 ancient volcanoes in the
Pacific, an extraordinary attribute of the appellation. Edna Valley's proximity to the
ocean creates a mild climate, and the growing season is typically the longest in
California producing long hangtimes and flavorful, mature fruit.
Our chardonnay is a perfect complement, rather than a competitor, to the fine works of the Chef.
