Fog Crest Estate Chard 2009

Notes from the Winemaker The 2008 vintage is characterized by an even growing season. The temperate weather allowed the fruit optimal hang. A heat spike during the first week of September pushed our harvest date up but the resulting fruit was near perfect. The grapes were pressed as whole clusters at harvest to retain the most delicate fruit aromas and flavors. The resulting juice was settled at 58 degrees for 24 hours then racked immediately to barrel. Our 3 coopers, Alain Fouquet, Maison Latour and Tonnellerie de Mercurey add unique character to the blend. Fouquet adds a rich toast, Latour adds depth and structure with Mercurey bringing out the mineral and spice. Hazelnut and lemons lift aromas of toast and spice. The fruit is framed by subtle oak flavors. More minerality than pure fruit, citrus and tart apple blend with stony earth. Melding into what we describe as the classic Fog Crest Vineyard structure. This vintage should age gracefully through 2014.