2015 J. Lohr October Night Arroyo Seco Monterey Chardonnay

14.9% alc., pH 3.39, TA 0.73, RS 0.30 g/100ml, 1,918 cases, $25. Backbone is Dijon 809 (Musqué clone) harvested at 24.8º Brix. Whole cluster pressed, inoculated primary and secondary fermentations. Aged in French oak barrels, 50% new, for 10 months with weekly stirring of the lees. Tight grain Francois Frères barrels. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. A very unusual Chardonnay reflecting the clone and I found it intriguing. The floral aspect of the Musqué clone definitely comes through in this wine, reminding somewhat of the aromatic profile of Malvasia Blanca. Besides the floral bouquet on the nose, aromas of spice, butterscotch and orange peel are attractive. The wine offers richness on the palate as well as clean, bright flavors of applesauce, citrus and spices including cinnamon. The oak is beautifully integrated and the overall balance excels. Give this one extra points for uniqueness. Score: 92. Reviewed April 19, 2017

Winery: J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Chardonnay