Wine maker notes

The 2001 Sbragia Limited Release Chardonnay is likeits predecessors - rich, unctuous, full-bodied and balanced. I call it `essence of Chardonnay` because of its incredible concentration and layers of flavors. I think the key to its balance is the wonderful springy acidity that holds everything in place - there`s a lot going on when you taste it but nothing dominates. This is a wine that is so complex and flavorful, you can go back to it after a big, tannic Cabernet Sauvignon!

Technical notes

Winemaster Ed Sbragia chose to barrel ferment and age the 2001 Sbragia Limited Release Chardonnay for almost nine months in custom toasted, new French Nevers oak barrels to encourage nutmeg spice, caramel-vanilla and toasty notes. Malolactic fermentation and weekly lees stirring enhanced the wine`s inherent buttery aromas and flavors, and gave it a creamy, rich, viscous mouthfeel that is balanced by a bright acidity in the back of the palate, pulling all of the flavors into a long finish.