2015 Chardonnay

In the vineyard

2015 Was much warmer than normal for Washington State. Harvesting our whites earlier allowed us to retain freshness, lively flavors and acidity.

We sourced mainly from four distinct sites to achieve the balance we were after in this warm year. Crawford (Yakima Valley) has established old vines (1993) and yields balanced fruit with great stone fruit flavors. Birch Creek (Walla Walla Valley) contributes ripe pear flavors. Celilo (The Gorge) contributes minerality, citrus, green apple and bright acidity. Weinbau (Wahluke Slope) produces assertive Chardonnay with ripe peach and pear flavors.

In the cellar

Although harvest was early, the rhythm of incoming grapes was nicely spread out and we had ample time to ferment both whites (all our Yakima Valley Chardonnay was picked by the end of August) and reds, without feeling much of a crunch. Harvesting our whites earlier allowed us to retain freshness, lively flavors and acidity while we patiently waited for the reds to pack up flavors, complexity, and power through longer hang time.

As with all Forgeron wines, the different vineyard lots are kept separate until the final blend is determined. This allows us to see how the fruit from each site develops and how each will contribute aroma and flavors to the wine. 

In the glass

Classic and refined style, combining juicy flavors and full body, balanced by fresh acidity and stone fruit notes.

NOSE: flinty, mineral, bright, creamy, white peach, anise, light toast

MOUTH: pear, crisp apple, vanilla, honeysuckle, light toast

FOOD & WINE PAIRING: grilled shrimp, avocado tuna tapas, creamy mustard tarragon chicken