Chardonnay “Reserve Selection” 2020 – Raymond Vineyards

The Chardonnay “Reserve Selection” Raymond Vineyards fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks to retain the purity of fruit. The wine did not go through malolactic conversion, retaining a crisp style which focuses on the inherent qualities of the Chardonnay varietal. Chardonnay “Reserve Selection” Raymond Vineyards was aged for 10 months on its fine lees with periodic lees stirring, which imparted texture. Maturation took place in 100% French oak barrels, 17% new, from Seguin Moreau, Francois Frère and Orion. The grapes come from the estate vineyards in Jameson Canyon and selected Napa Valley growers. The estate vineyards are planted on rolling hills at the southern end of Napa Valley. The growing conditions in the Jameson Canyon are very similar to Carneros, the neighbouring appellation just west of the Napa River. Winds flow through Jameson Canyon, bringing the cooling influence of the nearby Pacific Ocean and providing a long, cool growing season which enhances and concentrates the intensity of the varietal characteristics. A proportion of grapes are harvested from vineyards in Carneros and the Napa Valley which lend more texture and structure to the blend.