Vineyard
The Ricci family vineyard enjoys a prime location in the southern part of Carneros, close to the San Pablo Bay. The family has extensive experience farming this region that has evolved from graze and orchard land to one of the premier Chardonnay appellations in the world. Carneros’ maritime-influenced climate, intensified by the vineyard’s proximity to the bay—contributes to a longer time on the vine for the grapes, referred to as “hang-time”. The extended hang-time—which the Carneros region is known for—produces ripe, fully matured and intense flavors in the final wine.

Vintage
The 1999 growing season was characterized by cold dry weather; the season was long, with harvest happening late in September. Having just experienced a long season in 1998, we followed much of the same protocol to insure fully ripened, evenly developed grapes. We strictly monitored irrigation to control growth and increase uniformity and during veraison we removed any fruit that didn't fully color. As a result of our efforts to maximize the natural vintage conditions, 1999 ended up being a terrific year for our white wines.

Vinification
After cold soaking, the whole cluster grapes were quickly pressed to barrel and cold barrel fermented to retain the flavors of the Ricci Vineyard in the wine. The wine underwent 100% malolactic fermentation and was aged in French oak for eight months to impart roundness and complexity. The wine was minimally fined and bottled in June, 2000. Alcohol: 13.9%, Total acidity .58, pH 3.61, Residual sugar .12.

Tasting Notes
Notes of baked spiced apple, citrus and pear recall the vineyard while barrel aging imparted toast, vanilla and butter nuance. The wine has bright structure, a textured mouthfeel and a long, yeasty finish.

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