St Francis Chardonnay
| Description: | Rich with notes of citrus, melon and vanilla, this Chardonnay is a fresh expression of the hand-picked classic varietal. A third of the grapes in this blend were grown in our own vineyards; the rest we carefully selected from nearby vineyards in Sonoma Valley, Carneros, and Russian River appellations, choosing only fully ripened fruit. The fruit is 100% whole-cluster pressed and fermented in different lots. Six different yeasts and Ml strains were used to enhance the rich mouthfeel. Barrel aged for six months in French and American oak barrels before blending. Barrels are lees stirred by hand during aging to achieve a rich, lush mouth-feel. This Chardonnay undergoes 100% malolactic fermentation. As you will taste, the barrel component adds a toasty complexity. Fruit and pear aromas are offset on the palate by hints of oak and vanilla. Medium- to full-bodied, this Chardonnay has ripe fruit flavors, crisp high acid in the mouth, and a rich lingering finish. Region Description. Like its neighbor Napa, Sonoma is a small area filled with independent wineries and characterized by microclimates that vary according to the topography. The coolest parts of Sonoma are the fog-filled south, where the grape varieties are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Northwards up the valley the climate warms and provides a good base for Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. In general Sonoma wines are less dramatically flavorful than those of Napa. Cabernet Sauvignon is relatively soft, with blackcurrant fruit, minty and eucalyptus perfume, and some soft buttery oak. Zinfandel ranges from soft and gulpable to massive bramble and pepper styles. Chardonnay is rich and juicy, especially from the Russian River, and Sauvignon Blanc can be zingy and grassy. Most Sonoma wines have a freshness and a soft edge which makes them very suitable for drinking on their own, however they partner well with strongly flavored fish and meat dishes. The old-style Zinfandels are delicious with spicy cuisine. |
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| Price: | $ 18.99 |
| Price in original currency: | None |
Available from Haskell's
| Address: |
81 South 9th Street Minneapolis, MN 55402 United States |
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| Telephone (toll-free): | 800-486-2434 |
| Telephone (regular): | 612-342-2437 |
| Fax: | 612-342-2440 |
First added to 1000 Corks on April 4, 2022.
