Gundlach Bundschu Estate Vineyard Chardonnay 2020, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California

The Bundschu family’s 150+ year-old vineyard is located on the southwestern slopes of the Mayacamas Mountains, just eight miles north of San Pablo Bay. The terrain below 150 foot elevation features gently sloping Huichica clay loam soils with gravel deposits and cooler growing conditions that deliver minerality and focused acidity. Wines grown in these blocks bear the Sonoma Coast designation to reflect their cool climate character. There are four distinct blocks of Chardonnay, including two blocks of 40+ year-old Heritage Selections and two blocks of Robert Young clone. 2020 vintage – 100% Chardonnay, Winemaking: whole cluster pressed; 100% barrel fermented. 0 malolactic fermentation. Cooperage 10 months in French oak, 20% new. Tasting notes: Aromatic and inviting, our Estate Chardonnay highlights the vibrant nature of its Old World roots. Floral aromas and notes of fresh cut pineapple lead to bright flavors of honeydew melon and lemon zest. The wines racy minerality and crisp backbone are balanced by a restrained oak influence that provides rounded elements of lemon curd and a hint of crème brûlée. “The 2020 vintage threw many curve balls at us, including fires, a pandemic and drought, but we persevered and came out on the other side with some beautiful wines. Because of the smaller crop and drought conditions, the resulting wines are intense and concentrated with opulent ripe fruit flavors. In some ways we are prouder of this vintage than any other because our entire winemaking and viticulture team made some great wines under the most difficult circumstances imaginable.” – winery