Wine Advocate 91
The 2016 Chardonnay Estate is scented of ripe Bosc pears, fresh apple slices and nutmeg with hints of peach kernels, lightly browned toast and struck flint. Medium to full-bodied, the palate offers plenty of apple and pear goodness, with a satiny texture and lively line, finishing creamy.

Winery Technical Data
THE CHALK HILL 2016 ESTATE CHARDONNAY captures the vibrant, complex and classic character of our estate-grown grapes. We are dedicated to making exceptional Chardonnay, and no detail is overlooked. In the vineyard, focused planting of the ideal clone on each vineyard block, managing yields for optimum ripeness and balance, and the work of a dedicated crew are among the keys to our success. Chardonnay is a winemaker's grape, molded into its most interesting self by native yeast fermentation and aging in carefully chosen French oak barrels and frequent lees stirring. It is a labor-intensive wine, but the rewards are most certainly worth the hard work and attention.
The 2016 growing season began with an earlier than average bud break and fruit set followed by moderate temperatures in spring and summer. This allowed for even ripening, and balanced flavors. Our 2016 Estate Chardonnay expresses beguiling aromas of lemon meringue, orange blossom and a hint of toasted almond from the oak influence. Balanced and full with concentrated flavors of Meyer lemon, yellow apple, and creme brulee follow on the palate. Our Chardonnay is known for its long, rich and elegant finish, and this vintage is no exception.

Fermentation and Barrel
100 native yeast fermentation in barrel
100 malolactic fermentation with bi-weekly batonnage
Cooperage: 100 French oak, 42 new
Barrel Aging: 11 months

Harvest
Harvest Dates: September 19 - October 4, 2016
Average Yields: 3.91 tons/acre
Average Brix at Harvest: 24.9 degrees
Wine
Bottling Date: December 2017
pH: 3.65
TA: 5.45 g/L
Alcohol: 14.9