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2020

Firestone Vineyard Chardonnay

92 Points – James Suckling

This wine is comprised of grapes from different vineyard lots in Santa Barbara County that are blended together to create one full-bodied, delicious Chardonnay.

APPELLATION: Santa Barbara County

GRAPES: 77% Chardonnay, 13% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Rousanne

COOPERAGE: 9 months in French oak, 15% new

RELEASE: Spring 2022

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AROMAS & FLAVORS

This Chardonnay is blended with small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc and Rousanne to add structure and complexity, while retaining its crispness from only 50% malolactic fermentation. This wine offers aromas of stone fruit, apricot notes and a hint of toasted brioche. Bright and lively on the palate, crisp peach notes give way to lush and creamy toasted oak on the finish.

FOOD PAIRINGS

This versatile Chardonnay pairs beautifully with prosciutto and melon, Caprese salad, and assorted light meats and cheeses.

HOW IT’S MADE

The 2020 season began with minimal rain during winter — pushing Santa Barbara County into drought conditions —followed by average bud break in March and a mild spring. Summer brought relatively mild temperatures and one extreme heat spike in late August, with our vineyard weather stations recording 118F! Harvest began September 3rd, and mild weather through most of the month allowed us to pick each vineyard block at the optimal time. Harvest was completed on November 3rd.