Bargetto Winery

Vineyard consultant Prudy Foxx calls this the “Comeback Kid” Vineyard. She has really helped this vineyard overcome disease and productivity issues. Planted in 1992, this coastal-influenced spot is planted to two Chardonnay clones. Primarily, it is the Mt Eden clone, originally sourced from Corton-Charlemagne: this clone goes into the Estate Reserve. There are presently ten acres of Chardonnay that yield about 2.5 tons per acre: precious little.

According to John Bargetto, “Prudy has helped implement a more expansive spray program that includes new compounds which have boosted vineyard productivity. We are in the process of converting that section of vineyard to a lyre trellis system which will improve quality by avoiding sunburn and help to avoid disease in this Botrytis sensitive clone.”

The fresh and inviting aromas of peonies, “White Linen” perfume and bright lemon and vanilla are enticing, and in the mouth, it is a pear tart with cardamom, cloves and tropical fruit. This wine is very rich, but its intense acidity makes it zesty and refreshing. There is a significant amount of wood on this baby, so it can be put away for a while without worry. John says most all of their Chardonnay is barrel fermented, but he is starting to stainless steel ferment for more fruit impression.

Reviewed November 17, 2008 by Laura Ness.