Roanoke Vineyards

2007 Chardonnay

Technical Notes

100% Chardonnay
Blended fermentation: 82% stainless-steel-tank fermented fruit, 18% barrel-fermented fruit
456 cases made

 

 

Tasting Notes

This uniquely complex Chardonnay, a singular blend of both barrel and tank-fermented fruit, exhibits a lovely pale straw yellow in the glass, and showcases a brilliant clarity. The tears, however, are uncharacteristically viscous, foreshadowing a mouth-filling richness to follow. While the bouquet gives up delightfully bright, sweet notes of lemon, fresh cream, lime zest, fresh hay, cashew, talcum, and a blend of complex pear notes (the sweetness of Anjou, the acidity of Bartlett), the mouthfeel delivers the palate a strident unity of baked apples browned at their edges, lightly toasted honey, and toasted sesame oil. As this rich elixir settles and spreads, a second wave of fruit-derived citricity re-emerges, carrying with it a primacy of lemon and lime vibrancy. The finish is remarkably long and warm, and features a delicious synthesis of sweetness and acidity. In short, this is a perfect summer wine that can be enjoyed all year long.