Raymond Vineyards Reserve Selection Chardonnay, Napa Valley

Luscious aromas of pear and apple are complemented by soft notes of honeysuckle and a touch of toasted oak. Well balanced and textured with a long finish.

Producer Note

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. 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 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.

Winemaking

The grapes were whole cluster pressed and cool fermented in stainless steel tanks. The wine was aged ‘sur lie’ on its fine lees for nine months with periodic lees stirring; in 75% Nevers and Allier French oak barrels, of which 20% were new and 25% in stainless steel. The wine did not go through malolactic fermentation retaining a crisp style which focuses on the inherent qualities of the Chardonnay varietal.

Tasting Note

An elegant wine which opens with luscious aromas of pear and apple complemented by soft notes of honeysuckle and a touch of toasted oak. Well balanced and textured with flavours of melon, lemon and ripe pear culminating in a long, enjoyable finish.

Serving Suggestion

Pairs well with smoked salmon and caper crostini.

Grape

Chardonnay 100%

Awards

90 Pts, Wine Enthusiast, 2018