Wines of Substance Chardonnay 2018

100% whole cluster pressed (100 % Chardonnay). Native yeasts are used. 100 % barrel fermentation. The wine spends 30 % in new French barriques for a time period of 10 months that is barrel-aged on lees.

(100%) sourced from the Frenchman Hills north of the Wahluke Slope, which is one of the warmest areas in the Columbia Valley. However, Frenchman Hills Vineyard is a cooler site, partly because of its higher elevation at 1650 feet. It also does not easily frost, and the limestone and broken basalt soils at the top of the vineyard were not affected by the Missoula Flood that ravaged much of Eastern Washington some 12,000 years ago. Due to the slightly cooler aspect, grapes hang longer without accumulating excessive sugar (and thus, higher alcohol) while still managing to retain beautiful acidity.

Rich, focused and compelling. The aromatics lift the wine. Creamy lemon curd, brioche and minerality consume the palate. A long and delicious finish.

Perfect with light and delicate food such as lightly cooked shellfish like crab and prawns, steamed or grilled fish, fish pâtés, fish, chicken or vegetable terrines and pasta or risotto with spring vegetables. It also pairs well with creamy vegetable soups.