World renowned. Washington grown.
2000 Grand Estates Chardonnay
Tasting Notes
“This is an approachable wine brimming with flavor. Apple, pear and caramel are evident in the nose and on the palate. The wine is supple with a long, lingering finish." - Doug Gore, Winemaker
Gowing Season
- The 2000 growing season yielded some exceptional wines from unusual weather patterns.
- Mild winter temperatures gave way to bud break 10 days earlier than normal.
- From April through August, warm temperatures and cloud-free skies were interrupted by two two-week stints of cool, wet weather.
- Cool temperatures modestly delayed the ripening period, but the additional hang time resulted in ideal sugar accumulation and flavor maturity.
Vineyards
- Columbia Valley vineyards are seated east of the Cascade Mountain range. Up to 14,000 feet high, the mountains effectively block eastward-moving wet weather systems from the Pacific Ocean.
- Just 6 to 8 inches of rainfall reach the growing region annually. Vineyards are 100% drip irrigation.
- The soils have low fertility and low water-holding capacity, allowing precise control of vine growth patterns.
- Vines are planted north to south on south and southeast facing slopes.
Vinification
- Chardonnay lots from key vineyards sites were held separately for vinification and aging.
- Lots with intense, concentrated flavors fermented in French and American oak barrels, while grapes with more refined characteristics fermented in stainless steel.
- All lots underwent malolactic fermentation in the barrel and aged sur lie for 11 months.
- After aging for one year, lots were sampled and a master blend was created.
Technical Data
- Total acidity: 0.56 g/100ml
- pH: 3.70
- Alcohol: 13.5%
- Residual sugar: 0.45 g/100ml