Marineau Mills Chardonnay Rutherford 2024
Chardonnay people are our kind of people.
Tasting notes
The 2024 Marineau Mills Chardonnay opens with notes of white flowers, lemon curd, and golden pear, hallmarks of this vineyard and once again signature elements of the wine. Aromatics of citrus blossom and lightly toasted vanilla weave through, while the warmer vintage brings a touch more generosity to the fruit. The palate carries the vibrant acidity we loved in 2023, balanced by a glossy texture and gentle creaminess from barrel aging. Layers of ripe orchard fruit and subtle oak unfold through a long, persistent finish. Balanced, bright, and irresistibly drinkable.
Production notes
Picked on August 28th at dawn, when the temperature was a mild 56 degrees. Pressed gently. The juice was cold settled in tank, then racked to barrel to be inoculated and begin fermentation. We employed bâtonnage (lees stirring) every two weeks for the first six months, and once a month thereafter. Barrel fermented and aged for 12 months, then gently racked to tank for three months. Bottled on December 1st, 2025.
Élévage
Eight barrels. Half new (Damy and François Frères); half once or twice used.
Cases: 206
Harvest Date: August 28th, 2024
ABV: 14.9%
Soil Type: Pleasanton Loam
Varietal: Chardonnay, Clone 4
Winemaker: Ashley Hepworth