Matchbook Old Head Chardonnay 2021, Dunnigan Hills, California

The 2021 vintage of Matchbook Chardonnay is a blend of the six clones grown in the Matchbook estate vineyards. The color is classic – California golden straw. The flavors are dominated by the tropical notes that have become a signature of our Dunnigan Hills Chardonnay: pineapple, mango and melon. 60% malolactic fermentation adds a creamy texture and a touch of butterscotch; oak aging adds a note of vanilla. The dash of Verdejo brightens the wine with a lift of minerality. This delicious Chardonnay has a satisfyingly plump mouthfeel that is balanced by the crisp, fresh fruit that lingers in the finish. Blend: 96% Chardonnay, 4% Verdejo. All grapes were picked at night and delivered to the winery before sunrise to ensure the fruit was crushed when cool. The barrel fermented lots were lees stirred twice a month to enhance texture and mouthfeel. Most of the tank fermented lots were barreled down to complete aging. The Musqué clone 809 was tank fermented where it remained to hold on to all its sweet fruit characters.