World renowned. Washington grown.
2001 Reserve Chardonnay
Tasting Notes
“Rich and complex, this wine is threaded with fruit and French oak toastiness. Pear, apple and melon aromas continue on the palate and are complemented by butter and hazelnuts. The finish is seductive and lingering.” -Doug Gore, Winemaker
Growing Season
- Bud break occurred in mid-April, approximately one week later than a typical year.
- The vines thrived during excellent growing conditions in May and early June, and bloom occurred on time (mid-June).
- Above normal temperatures in July and August advanced ripening, and ideal temperatures in September and October (70s to 80s during the day; 40s to 50s during the night) allowed for excellent hang time and flavor maturity.
Vineyards
- The Reserve Chardonnay is sourced from Columbia Crest’s own Estate vineyards located on the Horse Heaven Hills.
- The vintage’s balance between warm daytime temperatures and cooler evening temperatures concentrated aromatics and enhanced complexity.
- The appellation’s low rainfall stressed the vines, yielding concentrated fruit with depth and variety expression.
Winemaking
- Vineyards were picked by hand and held separately for vinification. The juice was cold settled for two days, and then it was racked into new Burgundian-style barrels.
- Barrel fermentation lasted for two weeks followed by malolactic fermentation.
- The wine aged in the barrel for 14 months on the lees.
- Weekly hand-stirring occurred throughout aging with lots blended just before bottling.
Technical Data
- Total acidity: 0.49 g/100ml
- pH: 3.75
- Alcohol: 14.0%
- Residual Sugar: 0.07 g/100ml
- Blend: 100% Chardonnay