2020 La Cruz Chardonnay
2020, California, USA
About the Wine
The 2020 vintage was vastly characterized by a series of environmental challenges, putting vineyard crews and winemakers to the test. The season started well, growing conditions were nearly ideal. Spring frost was an issue for some of our neighboring AVA’s, but our windy site was spared any frost. An August heat spell accelerated ripening, resulting in an early start to harvest and yielding a small crop. However, when the fire broke in Bodega bay on Sunday, August 24th the same wind-protected our site from frost brought days and days of smoke. Immediate sampling, analysis, and micro-fermentations allowed us to determine how to proceed. The ancient sea-bed of the San Pablo Bay is mineral rich, clay soils that define La Cruz Vineyard. Thirty-four acres are planted to chardonnay, in distinct blocks where clone 4, Wente and Dijon clones are planted. Typical to this vineyard is a pronounced bright acidity and signature spice notes.
Tasting Notes
The 2020 La Cruz Chardonnay is bright and has a beautiful golden color. The wine shows aromas of tropical and stone fruit with a hint of vanillin oak. The wine is expressive in the mouth and exhibits green apple, pear, wet stone, white flowers, caramel, butter toast texture with a long, mouthwatering finish of acidity.