2021 Row III Reserve Chardonnay
40% case
Livermore Valley
Grown + Produced + Bottled
by Fraser-Howard Vineyards
$42
Row III - Dedicated to the grandmother of the vineyard - Marilyn Fraser, whose father originally bought the property after World War II. Marilyn and her husband assisted in the planting of the vines and the decision to choose chardonnay as the varietal planted. Marilyn herself (whose favorite number is 3) continues to support the vineyard and subsequent wines to this day. Who better to dedicate our Reserve Chardonnay to?
Expressive and layered with aromas of peach, citrus zest, and creme brulee. Full-bodied and smooth with plenty of stone fruit, cream, and hints of vanilla with a crisp, citrus finish that provides balance to the upfront richness.
2021 throughout California and the East Bay brought a long and even growing season with a dry winter and mild spring temperatures. A warm summer with very few heat spikes was followed by mild, warmer fall than average. Rain remained sparse throughout the year but these conditions produced smaller, more concentrated fruit clusters resulting in great flavor and acidity making for a complex and well-balanced wine.
Harvested in the early morning hours on September 12th. The fruit was whole cluster pressed to retain delicate fruit flavors before being fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve the bright acidity and fruit flavors. Minimal lees stirring during aging, no malo-lactic conversion.
