When first poured out, the Tollini Vineyard Chardonnay offers lemon-lime aromas that mingle with a hint of juicy mango inviting a first sip. On the palate, tropical flavors of green pineapple and feijoa are underscored by a mouthwatering acidity that frames the lush purity of the fruit. The finish is long and supple, with a hint of rich citrus and baking spices reminiscent of fresh-baked lemon cookies.
The harvested grapes were put directly as whole clusters into our tank press. A gentle press cycle was used to keep the tannin and bitterness out of the juice. The juice was cold settled for 48 hours and racked to barrel for primary and malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged in 30% new, and 20% one-year old French oak barrels. The wine was bottled on August 6, 2019.
Because the 2018 growing season was one of naturally high yields, we worked closely with our grower partners to thin the fruit in order to bring each vineyard into ideal balance. The clusters ripened slowly, and in general, 2018 was a late harvest. To ensure that the fruit was delivered to the winery cool and in pristine condition, the grapes were harvested by hand the nights of September 12-18, 2018.
Spotlighting our love for exploring different microclimates, soil types and regions for making exceptional cool-climate Chardonnays, Tollini Vineyard is located north of Sonoma County in the Redwood Valley appellation of Mendocino County. Situated 200 feet higher than the immediate surrounding areas, Tollini is planted within a cool “pocket” that ensures abundant hangtime and ideal flavor development. We sourced our grapes from prized blocks farmed by winegrower Alvin Tollini: Ricetti Ranch and Grandpa’s Block. Ricetti Ranch features older vines that produce wines with lovely perfume and complexity, while the more youthful vines of Grandpa’s Block exhibits bright acid and pure, vibrant fruit.
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