2015 Viluko Mayacamas Mountains Sonoma County Chardonnay

13.5% alc., pH 3.40, TA 0.58, 90 cases,$38. Produced and bottled by Viluko Vineyards, Sonoma, CA. Vineyard planted to a Robert Young selection (clone 17). Frost damage reduced crop in this vintage by 50% (less than 0.5 tons-per-acre). Harvest Brix 22.5º. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented with lees stirring twice monthly for 6 months during malolactic fermentation, then aging on the gross lees with monthly lees stirring for another year. Aged in 45% new and 55% second use French oak barrels. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of lemon oil, green apple, smoke and pine sap lead off. Sleek and polished in the mouth, with alluring flavors of lemon, grapefruit, spice, and oakdriven notes of vanillin, caramel, toast and buttery brioche. Quite satisfying, with good but not imposing cut on the finish. Score: 91. Reviewed September 24, 2017

Winery: Viluko
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay