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2009 PAHLMEYER CHARDONNAY NAPA VALLEY
Technical Notes
- Harvested: September 10 to October 9, 2009
- Vineyards: Pahlmeyer Waters Ranch & Atlas Peak
- Bottled: August 16, 2010
- Composition: 100% Chardonnay
- Alcohol: 14.9%
- Winemaker: Erin Green
Winemaking Notes
The grapes were hand-sorted and gently whole-cluster pressed. After overnight settling, the juice was racked to barrels for 100% native wild yeast barrel fermentation followed by malo-lactic fermentation. The wine was aged in 90% new French oak barrels for eleven months on the lees, which were stirred weekly. It was not fined or sterile filtered.
Tasting Notes
“This complex Chardonnay hits you with layers of fresh mandarin orange zest, white peach, melon and candied lemon. Spicy nutmeg, vanilla pot de crème and toasty notes are balanced by bright acidity and an intense, mouthwatering, long finish.” – Erin Green, Winemaker
Ratings
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #192, December 2010:
“Consistently one of the top Chardonnays in California, Pahlmeyer’s 2009 exhibits an impressive, thick-looking, light gold color with green hues. Loads of peach, creme brulee, honeysuckle, and subtle oak are present in this full-bodied, well-endowed, pedal-to-the-metal style of Chardonnay that will appeal to those who like white Burgundy, but with additional richness. Given its track record, expect this wine to age nicely for 5-6 years.” 95 points
Wine Spectator Insider, Feb 23, 2011:
“Offers an exciting mix of flavors built around roasted marshmallow, honeysuckle, citrus and melon, ending with a rich, spicy after- taste. Intense and focused, long and complex. Drink now through 2017.” –J.L.
93 points