Santa Lucia Highlands
Sleepy Hollow Vineyard is one of the oldest Chardonnay vineyards planted in the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation of Monterey County. Specialized trellising allows the fruit to ripen slowly, producing exceptional wines with high natural acidity. Grapes from this world famous vineyard poses up-front tropical fruit flavors, seductive texture, and excellent aging potential.
After another dry winter, a mid-spring heat spell caused an early bloom. Cool weather, with some occasional frost, resulted in shatter and uneven fruit set. As a result, cluster and berry size was small and yields were low in most varieties. Warmth didn't return to the Santa Lucia Highlands mountain range until late September with harvest commencing in October.
Handpicked fruit was barrel fermented in French oak from five separate coopers, the wood coming from the forests of Allier and Voges. Malolactic fermentation was completed in late April of 2009, softening the acidity and creating a round, buttery character. Allowed to barrel age "sur lees" for twelve months, this wine is polished, elegant, and very round on the palate.
Our version of Sleepy Hollow Chardonnay is decidedly elegant, offering deep concentrated layers of apricot, ripe pear, and pineapple, with soft oak flavors and a hint of clove. The creamy, lingering butterscotch finish, coupled with firm natural acidity, will invite you back for continued enjoyment. Pair this wine with grilled shrimp, scallops, or, as a stand-alone cocktail.
Steve Pessagno, Winemaker
92 Points, Gold - Beverage Testing Institute
"Deep golden yellow color. Aromas of buttery praline and
spicy caramel apples with a soft, silky dry-yet-fruity medium body and a relaxed pineapple cake and orange chiffon finish. A sensuous, satisfying chardonnay."
$32
