2021 Nightwing Vineyard Magnum

93 Points: Jim Gordon Wine Enthusiast - October 2023

“Bright, tangy citrus aromas lead to equally lively, refreshing flavors in this charming, full-bodied wine. Lemons, limes and tangerines light up the palate and give the wine a mouthwatering appeal. Best 2025–2032.”

93 Points: Decanter - September 2023

92 Points: James Suckling JamesSuckling.com - November 2023

“Yellow plums, acacia and sourdough followed by browned toast, honeycomb and bitter almonds with brewed chamomile tea. Medium body and delightful acidity. Zesty finish. Beautiful depth with layers. Drink or hold.”

92 Points: MaryAnn Worobiec Wine Spectator - May 2023

"Intense, with lip-smacking acidity to support the yuzu, lemon blossom, lime zest and white pepper flavors on a sleek, powerful frame, while hints of lemon thyme and orange zest linger. Drink now. 666 cases made."

The 2021 vintage delivered a moderate and consistent growing season for most of Sonoma County, leading to a smooth, easily manageable harvest. While the continuation of drought conditions led to slightly reduced yields, the overall quality and concentration of the grapes was exceptional. We harvested the four clones of Chardonnay (72, Mt. Eden, 809, and 95) used for this wine in the cool, evening hours of September 6, 2021, at 24.4º Brix, and September 10, 2021, between 24.5º and 24.8º Brix.

This is our second vintage of Chardonnay from Nightwing Vineyard. The vineyard is named in honor of the indigenous nocturnal birds that keep a watchful eye on the land. Nightwing is also a nod to the original guardian of the property, Vernon Morelli, a former WWII pilot who built a landing strip amidst the vineyard. Located in the Petaluma Gap, our new estate vineyard, perched at 1,200 feet above sea level, basks in cool ocean winds and long, sunny days

• composition:

  100% Chardonnay

• alcohol: 14.5%
• bottling date: 08/02/2022
• aging:

  Aged 10 months sur lie in French oak, 22% new, 22% once-used.

• fermentation:

  Whole cluster pressed and then racked into French oak for primary and malolactic fermentation.