Description

ABOUT THE PRODUCER:
Raymond Vineyards, founded in 1970, is one of the Napa Valley’s pioneering estates. The Raymond family arrived in Napa in 1933 and have become deeply connected to the valley’s winemaking origins. In 1970, they established a 36-hectare estate in Rutherford, which now comprises 121 hectares in Rutherford, St. Helena and Jameson Canyon. Raymond’s Rutherford and St. Helena estate vineyards are certified organic and biodynamic; and 100% of the winery’s power comes from renewable solar energy. They are certified by Napa Green and the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance. Five generations of the Raymond family have created a Napa icon, with an enduring reputation for elegant wines with a beautiful balance of finesse, opulence and complexity.

ABOUT THE VINEYARD:
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. The vines are grown sustainably and are certified by Napa Green, Fish Friendly Farming and the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.

THE WINEMAKING PROCESS:
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. The wine was aged for 10 months on its fine lees with periodic lees stirring, imparting texture. Maturation took place in 100% French oak barrels, 17% new, from Seguin Moreau, Francois Frère and Orion.

OUR TASTING NOTES:
Luscious aromas of tropical and stone fruits are complemented by delicate notes honeysuckle and a touch of toasted oak. Creamy and textured, with refreshing balance and a hint of minerality on the finish.

GRAPE VARIETY:
Chardonnay 100%