2015 Gregory James Patient Terrier Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

13.5% alc., pH 3.28, TA 0.73, 320 cases, $38. Released October 2016. Spring Mountain, Robert Young and Old Wente clones. Harvest Brix 22.5º. Whole cluster pressed, inoculated with a White Burgundy yeast, fermented and aged in neutral French oak barrels. No lees stirring, full malolactic fermentation. Bottled immediately after secondary fermentation to retain a fresh and vibrant character. Winemaker Greg James was strongly influenced to produce this style of Chardonnay by his love of wines of Chablis, France. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Although I try to avoid the term, “minerality” came to mind right away when I tasted this wine. Clean and brisk, with aromas and flavors of citrus, melon, pear and floral bouquet uplifted by a prevalent energetic, steely acidity. There is the slightest hint of butter from malolactic fermentation and even less infusion of almond oil presumably from oak. Score: 93. Reviewed April 19, 2017

Winery: Gregory James
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Chardonnay