Grapes: 100% Chardonnay
Vineyard: Alaya, Santa Cruz Mountains. Sandy loam. Organic, dry-farmed by James himself, no-till
James on this wine: “I remain a hardcore Chardonnay fan. The general niche of natural wine doesn’t pay Chardo much attention, and tends to be off chasing the next shiniest thing. However, given the chance to make a great Chardonnay and offer it to an appreciative, progressive and sophisticated group of wine lovers, everyone is in. My early wine education and apprenticeship had a heavy focus on Chard and Pinot, and I will always consider it a privilege to work with these noble varieties.
Making of: The fruit was hand-picked and immediately direct pressed utilizing a lengthy and gentle press cycle. The juice was barrel fermented with native yeasts. After fermentation is finished, the barrels are topped up and no further fussing is done. As a respectful nod to Burgundian tradition, one new low-toast barrel was used (~10% of the blend) to get microoxygenation and enhance its aging potential. No stirring, ‘sur lies’ for 10 months, racked once. Unfined, unfiltered, no additives including no added sulfites.
Personality: A pale straw hue. Aromas of flint, brioche, and lemon curd. A beautifully delicate and pristine Chardonnay. Aging will only help this wine develop weight and complexity.”
