Scott Family Estate 2017 Arroyo Seco Chardonnay

HARVEST & THE VINEYARDS: Arroyo Seco (Dry Creek), a sub-appellation of the Monterey AVA, enjoys a cool climate, producing an extended growing season (often 2 to 4 weeks longer than Napa Valley). This added hang time allows for greater fruit ripening and brighter acidity. The Estates vineyards, inland from Big Sur, have deep, gravelly soils, ideal for premium Chardonnay cultivation. This unique combination of soil and climate produces relatively small berries with intense, concentrated flavors. The 2017 growing season started off with ample rain, which helped to replenish soils after 5 years of drought. The much-needed rainfall helped to generate healthy vine growth. Mild spring weather led to successful bloom and set of healthy grape clusters. Warmer temperatures in July helped to achieve full ripeness in the grapes. A heat wave in early September sped up ripening, but by the end of the month it slowed back to normal as the temperatures cooled.

Alcohol percentage: 14.5

Tasting Notes

This Chardonnay features a creamy mid-palate with a long finish, rich flavors of honeysuckle, lemon and tropical fruits with underlying toasty oak.