2024 La Storia Chardonnay

The grapes for the 2024 La Storia Chardonnay were sourced from two old and established Russian River vineyards- the Laguna Vineyard and Olivet Road (own by De Loach family). The crop yields were relatively low this year with small berries and clusters providing great concentration of aromas and flavors. Each vineyard was hand-picked early in the morning at the lowest temperature possible in small ½ t bins. We pressed the fruit directly without destemming for preserving more of the delicate aromas. The two vineyard lots were harvested at different times and barrel fermented separately using three different types of yeast each with partial malolactic fermentation to preserve the fruit expression of the grapes and to keep more of the natural acidity and freshness. The lees on the bottom of the barrels was stirred twice per month for increased mouth feel and viscosity. Prior bottling the two lots were blended. Our 2024 Chardonnay is a great example of the variety and the style with aromas of pineapple, ripe apples, peaches, and apricots. Further aeration reveals deeper aromas of toast with ripe Mayer lemons meringue and a bit of minerality. The mouth feel is generous and rich, with tamed acidity and long and round finish. Drink now, through 2030. Cheers!