2021 Ramey Chardonnay, Fort Ross-Seaview, Sonoma Coast, California – WS 94

2021 Ramey Chardonnay, Fort Ross-Seaview, Sonoma Coast, California – WS 94

Original price was: $49.95.Current price is: $47.95.

Description

The vineyard is nestled amidst redwoods, bay laurels, and oaks on sprawling, southern-exposed blocks at the Martinelli Charles Ranch, located three miles inland from the Pacific at an elevation of 1,115 feet. The site, planted in 1982, boasts a soil composition of Goldridge and Josephine; the former derived from sandstone and the latter from shale. The vineyard was carefully planted with Clone 4 and Old Wente. The growing season typically experiences a period of drought, with variable spring weather that often extends the bloom period. This necessitates careful green drops at veraison. The temperatures usually stabilize in June, remaining moderate through harvest, resulting in a cool, even growing season. Yields can vary, often being especially low for Chardonnay sites. The winemaking process involves pressing the fruit whole cluster for delicacy. Native-yeast and full native malolactic fermentation take place in barrel, with sur lies bâtonnage. After aging for 12 months in 10% new French oak barrels, the Chardonnay is traditionally fined for clarity and texture during the following harvest and bottled without filtration. The result is a 100% Chardonnay varietalcomposition that reflects the unique characteristics of the vineyard and the meticulous winemaking process. “Coming
from a special vineyard site, our Sonoma Coast Chardonnays show great depth of flavor, length of finish, aromatic complexity, and a fine balance between richness and delicacy. This vineyard has typically cool climates, low vigor soil, and a vine selection that generate small berries, small clusters and inherently low yields.” – David Ramey

“Vibrant and effusive, with energetic lime sherbet, lemon oil, citron and tangerine notes at the core. Shows aromatic details of lemon verbena, lemongrass and lemon basil, with a touch of green tea and white pepper on the fresh, juicy frame. Drink now. 3,981 cases made.” – 94 points, Wine Spectator