Ryder Estate Chardonnay

The grapes for our 2013 Chardonnay were sourced from our estate vineyards in Monterey County, a part of California’s renowned Central Coast. The brisk conditions of this area are known for producing wines of intense varietal character and well-balanced acidity. On the heels of a picture-perfect 2012 growing season, the 2013 vintage was another beaut. Spring came early and lasted long, with temperate conditions and ideal temperatures. Cool nights and overcast mornings followed by breezy warm afternoons made the summer months ideal for even ripening and good flavor development. At the winery, the fruit was gently whole-cluster pressed, then chilled and lightly settled before being transferred to stainless steel tanks and slowly fermented at cool temperatures to enhance the varietal aromatics. After fermentation, a portion of the wine was aged for 8 months on French oak. We prefer a Chardonnay that blends both stainless steel and oak-aged wine, allowing an elegant balance of the beautiful cool-climate fruit flavors of Monterey and lush notes of vanilla and toast. Our 2013 Ryder Estate Chardonnay exhibits vibrant aromas of green apple and citrus peel, with subtle notes of vanilla and butter. Bright tropical fruit flavors are accented by hints of toasty oak. The lush mid-palate leads into a lingering fruit finish while still maintaining a refreshing acidity.