Ventana 2003 Gold Stripe Chardonnay

Vineyard Notes:
The Ventana is a 300+ acre vineyard in the heart of the Arroyo Seco American Viticultural Area, Monterey County California. The soil is primarily a calcareous composition of alluvial deposit with rock and gravel that support excellent drainage.

Winemaker’s Notes:
We take the grapes from the vineyard via gondolas for immediate pressing using our Europress bladder press that allows adjustable amounts of pressure for optimum juice quality. The juice is then pumped into tank for 36 to 48 hours of settling and then the clear juice is racked for fermentation. Gold Stripe Chardonnay is barrel aged for ten months in 100% French Oak for extra richness and flavor.

Tasting Notes:
The fruit of the “Gold Stripe” Chardonnay is well developed and contains concentrated flavors of tangy apple, pear, lemon, honey and a tinge of mineral. Those fruit flavors are the fundamental theme of the wine highlighted with the finest French Oak as an accent which adds vanilla and light honey tones. “Gold Stripe” is well balanced with good body and a medium-long finish designed as a fine companion at table.

Technical Notes:

Alcohol:	13.76%
Total Acidity	3.61
pH	0.57
Residual Sugar:	Dry
Composition/Blend:	100% Chardonnay
Appellation:	Arroyo Seco (Monterey County)
Barrels:	100% French Oak
Vineyard:	100% Estate, Ventana Vineyard
Soil Type:	Calcareous composition of alluvial deposit with rock and gravel