
2014 Russian River Valley Chardonnay
94 Pts Wine Enthusiast
The Château de Chambord to our Versailles in our portfolio, this meticulously crafted, limited-production of 423 cases embodies the elegance, boldness, and complexity of the Hertelendy winemaking philosophy. This polished Chardonnay combines graceful poise and purity with full-bodied richness and structure. The bouquet displays tropical fruit, honeysuckle and hints of lemon zest. The palate is alive with bright acidity and delicate minerality followed by notes of citrus, guava and crème brulee. Lingering flavors and textural richness lead to a long-lasting, luxurious finish full of character and finesse.
The premium grapes were sourced from multiple pristine sites in the Russian River Valley along the Sonoma Coast. Both old vine clone 4 and mature Dijon clone vines were selected for the production of the wine. Each block was individually harvested at optimal ripeness, letting nature perform its magic in the expression of the flavor and balance of the grapes. After gently whole cluster pressing the grapes, the juice was fermented by native yeast while in 100% new French oak barrels. For added complexity and mouth feel, the wine went through malolactic fermentation while aging "sur lees" for 15 months.