Using a special piece of machinery that heat treats specific rows of the vineyard in rapid motion, it decreases the number of mildew sprays and actually increases the phenolics (important flavor contributors) in the grape skins. This results in amplified aromas and black/red fruit characteristics with unusual complexity and layering.
Specially sourced from the Escolle Vineyard, at the legendary northern end of the Santa Lucia Highlands. Highly aromatic, showing pot-pourri, conifer, and dark red fruit plus a suggestion of roasted cocoa on the nose.
Aged for 18 months in 25% new French Oak, 165 cases
This unfined and unfiltered Chardonnay is crafted to resemble Puligny-Montrachet with lovely mineral tones and a fresh reductive character showing off lemon curd, apple, pear and golden fig fruit, along with hazelnut, clove spice, butterscotch, sea breeze, smoky vanilla and yeasty brioche notes. This golden hued, delicately floral and elegantly rich cool climate Chardonnay goes wonderfully with a range of sea foods and poultry dishes, especially crab and or lobster.
The name alone has made this one of our most popular Special Releases. It is actually a co-fermentation of Jim’s SBC block, and the aforementioned Judy’s Block. The 777 clone, co-fermented with our Special Burgundy clone, produces an outstanding pinot, especially nice for anniversary presents, wedding gifts, or a special dinner.
A classic Rhone blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, that is delightfully playful, dark garnet/red hued and full of flavor with a medium weight body and easy textures that capture Monterey County's Mediterranean warmth and marine influenced cool/crisp detail.
Aged 24 months in one and two-use French oak, 87 cases
From oldest (1972&1973) Chalone appellation blocks still in production, a lovely amber-tinged garnet: highly aromatic, with hints of pot-pourri, conifer, and sandalwood. Distinctive on the palate, redolent of macerated herbs, tangerine peel and red berries, but lively and intense on the back palate and finish.
From a half-acre block of the 777 clone, it is typically blended into the Reserve, but in especially exceptional years it is bottled on it's own, producing a single barrel.
On a steep southwest facing hill, from one of the oldest blocks in the vineyard, a special clone from the Pommard area of Burgundy. Great depth and every expressive nose. Aged exclusively for 27 months in a new French oak barrel.
Richly flavored and full of energy showing bright cherry, plum, and strawberry fruits, a light spiciness, and a pretty floral dimension. This wine, with its silky texture and long finish, will impress even the most sophisticated of palates.
In the French style, its opulent density is very pleasing and its mineral elements and zesty verve deliver energy and elegance. Seamless layers of classic honeysuckle, apricot, peach pit tanginess, faint citrus marmalade, verbena/orange honeycomb, subtle wood nuances and crunchy chalky stones.
One of the two original estate pinot noirs, the Cuvée comes from various vineyard parcels and a full selection of clones fermented mainly with native yeasts and partial whole cluster. A silky smooth wine with a rich display of classic Pinot fruit and spice. Pairs particularly well with grilled local salmon, seared duck breast, or even burgers.
