2012 Benovia La Pommeraie Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.5% alc., 350 cases, $48. Sourced from George Martinelli Vineyard (Zio Tony) located at the edge of the Green Valley AVA. The vineyard is planted at a very high density of 2420 vines per acre to Dijon clones 548 and 95. The site was once an apple orchard, so Benovia pays homage to the Martinelli family and the history of the site by naming the wine ‘La Poommeraie’ - French for apple orchard. Indigenous yeast fermentation, 100% malolactic fermentation, and aged sur lie for 16 months in 40% new French oak barrel. · Light golden straw color in the glass. The perfume of pear, caramel and toffee leads to a rich, full, smooth palate of lemon curd, pear and spice flavors. A luscious Russian River Valley style Chardonnay that offers plenty of pleasure. Score: 91. Reviewed December 10, 2014

Winery: Benovia Winery
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir (& Chardonnay)