Clos LaChance 2005 Glittering Emerald-Throated Chardonnay

Vineyard Notes:
The grapes for the Glittering-Emerald Chardonnay were sourced from vineyards owned by longtime Monterey County grape grower Scheid Vineyards. Riverview Vineyard (Soledad): Located two miles east of Soledad and adjacent to the Pinnacles, this 215-acre vineyard is nestled on a bench overlooking the Salinas river. It is an ideal Chardonnay growing location-the bench creates excellent air flow and the southwestern exposure maximizes available sunlight, allowing fruit to ripen slowly and evenly. The soils are well-drained and comprised of decomposed granite. San Lucas Vineyard (San Lucas): The subappellation of San Lucas is located approximately 12 miles south of King City. The vineyard has softly rolling topography.

Rains in the early spring and summer created vigorous vine growth early on. Harvest started on schedule, however the cool weather slowed things down, with the last grapes coming in around Thanksgiving. Yields were through-the-roof all throughout the state.

Winemaker Tasting Notes:
This wine opens up with strong aromas of freshly cut green apple, melon and pear. A bowl full of tropical fruit salad (pineapples, bananas, mangos and papaya) is in there, as well as a hint of floral apple blossom. On the palate, the refreshing flavors of crisp apple and fresh citrus are balanced with an acidic component. The finish is fairly long considering that there was no oak used when making this wine. I really enjoy the lingering tropical fruit flavors of pineapple and banana.

Food Pairing:
Scallops with Mango Salsa, Chinese Chicken Salad, Camembert Cheese

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	Monterey
Varietal:	100% Chardonnay
Bottle Date:	Feb. 7-9 2006
Fermentation:	Stainless Steel
Alcohol:	13.5%