World renowned. Washington grown.

2002 Reserve Chardonnay

Tasting Notes
“Rich, complex aromas of caramelized sugar and hazelnut are complemented by lush flavors of almond, pear and apple. The concentrated fruit and oak mingle into a harmonious, lush finish.” -Ray Einberger, Winemaker

Vintage

• The 2002 growing season began cool but concluded among the warmest on record.
• Ideal weather conditions from mid-summer to early fall, with daytime to nighttime swings spanning as much as 20 degrees, were perfect for fruit maturation.
• Grape clusters were small and compact with fully mature berries.
• Fruit quality was excellent, marking the 5th consecutive quality vintage.

Vineyards

• The Reserve Chardonnay is picked by hand 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 varietal expression.

Vinification

• Vineyards were picked by hand and held separately for vinification.
• The juice was cold settled for two days, and then racked into new Burgundian-style barrels.
• Barrel fermentation lasted for up to four weeks followed by Malolactic fermentation.
• The wine aged on the lees for 16 months, and barrels were hand-stirred weekly during the first 14 months.

Technical Data

• Total acidity: 0.52 g/100ml
• pH: 3.75
• Alcohol: 14.5%
• Blend: 100% Chardonnay

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