2005 Blanc de Blancs

Crafted exclusively from hand-harvested Chardonnay, the 2005 Blanc de Blancs represents the synergy of careful grape growing, artisan cellar practices and the winemaker's blending skill. Blanc de Blancs is prized among sparkling wine connoisseurs because of the rich textural qualities, complex aromas, elegance and promising aging potential that Chardonnay provides.

Tasting Notes

An abundant mousse and enticing aromas of delicate orange blossoms, ripe Gravenstein apple, vanilla and brioche announce this elegant Blanc de Blancs. Its full, creamy entry on the palate reveals complex flavors of ripe pear, lemon meringue and hints of white chocolate along with mineral notes that persist on a fresh, lasting, precisely balanced finish.

Winemaking

The 2005 vintage began with a very cool, wet spring that slightly delayed bud break and bloom. A mild, sunny and dry summer further slowed the season, and temperatures through September and into October remained below 100F. As a consequence, a longer-than-normal period between veraison and harvest provided true hang time. An excellent Chardonnay crop showed firm acidity with mature, complex flavor development.

• Whole-cluster pressed for delicacy
• Fermented in stainless steel tanks at temperatures of 55F to 60F to retain vibrancy and freshness
• This cuvee is a blend of eight base wines
• More than three years cellar aging on the yeast developed great complexity and lasting effervescence

Acclaim

2003 Vintage
87 pts - Top Value Selection
"Supple and elegant, with pretty floral and lemon zest aromas and crisp, delicate citrus and anise flavors."
- Wine Spectator, December 2006

90 pts - Wine Enthusiast, December 2007

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Awards

2005 Vintage - DOUBLE GOLD 2010 SF International Wine Competition

2003 Vintage - 2006/2007Gold Medals

Indy Interntational Wine Competition

National Women's Wine Competition (Double Gold/Best of Class)

Sonoma County Harvest Fair

Pacific Rim International Wine Competition (Grand Champion - Gold, Best of Class)

Critics Challenge International Wine Competition

North of the Gate Wine Competition (Gold, Best of Class)

Food Affinities

A versatile accompaniment to a wide variety of appetizers from fresh oysters to toasted almonds, mussels to grilled prawns and, yes, caviar, this wine also matches superbly with a variety of cheeses like triple creams, Brie and Fontina.