Description

PRODUCER:
Raymond Vineyards, founded in 1970, is one of the Napa Valley’s pioneering estates. The Raymond family arrived in Napa in 1933 and has 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.

VINEYARD:
The R Collection Chardonnay is sourced from the finest North and Central Coast vineyards throughout California, with each area adding a unique layer to the overall taste profile. The vines are planted in gravel soils overlaid with alluvial layers, which provide the vines with good drainage. The grapes are ripened by the afternoon sun, but the mornings and evenings are spent in fog with cool, marine breezes, ultimately helping to evenly ripen the grapes. This area is ideal for producing Chardonnay with bright acidity and creamy, citrus flavours. Ecological cultivation and sustainable farming are of paramount importance, and the vines are certified by Napa Green, Fish Friendly Farming and the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.

WINEMAKING:
Minimal intervention winemaking techniques were used to allow the true Californian terroir to shine through. Primarily fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and varietal characteristics of the Chardonnay grape, a small proportion was fermented in oak to add subtle complexity. It underwent partial malolactic conversion, which developed a creamy texture, while retaining balancing acidity.

TASTING NOTE:
The fresh, floral nose opens with bright citrus notes complemented by a touch of honeysuckle. Crisp, with tangy citrus notes on the exquisitely balanced palate, this creamy Chardonnay is smooth on the finish.

GRAPES:
Chardonnay 100%.