Mossback Chardonnay 2020, Russian River Valley, California

Mossback Chardonnay draws its grapes from Aquarius Vineyards, which is nestled among the flourishing pine and fir trees along the Russian River just east of Guerneville. Chardonnay from this cool climate yields low pH and high acidity creating the signature crisp, lively flavors. The wine was aged in 35% oak for a lovely creaminess that does not overwhelm the fruit flavors. A small amount of Dunnigan Hills Chardonnay was blended in to add viscosity and lush tropical fruit flavors to the wine. This wine was primarily cold-fermented to accentuate the classic characteristics of grapes grown in the cool-climate, Sonoma County appellation. Only a small percentage of the wine was fermented and aged in oak. Beautiful pear and crisp green apple aromas lead to flavors of peach, green fig and lime zest. 20% percentage of the wine was barrel fermented and aged to add a lush texture with notes of vanilla and butterscotch. This is a bright and vibrant Chardonnay with a mineral finish that blends with the creaminess from the French-oak aging.