Nalle 2005 Chardonnay, Hopkins Ranch

Varietal Notes:
What the _____! Nalle makes Chardonnay? Truth be told, we make some to blend with our quirky Sauvignon Blanc. Since it's Hopkins Russian River Ranch (good stuff), we hold a little on the side for the ABC backlashers. Yes, it's barrel fermented and it completes M-L. No, it's not over the top Screaming Yellow Zonkers. A long time ago in a distant galaxy, California Chardonnay reminded us of a top drawer premier cru Mersault. Be here now but cellar it. Patience furthers. I Ching to take your order.

Winemaker Notes:
Yeah, we know, "This here world don't need no more Chardonnay." That was our mantra when we attempted to convert you to Dry Riesling. That focus group went underground a few years ago and has resurfaced as RETRO-CHARD. The pear and green apple character sings in harmony with restrained oak. Our 20 case test run of 2004 has expanded to 95 cases. Think 1973 Stony Hill.

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	Russian River Valley
Vineyard:	Hopkins Ranch
Bottled:	March 2006
Oak:	New- 4 yr. old French oak
Alcohol:	13.4%
TA:	7.0 g/L
pH:	3.50
Production:	95 cases