The approach to Chardonnay making is described by the folks at Stillman Street in the belief “in making Chardonnay that is fresh and full of vibrant, vineyard-inspired fruit—unpretentious, bistro-style wine that brings pleasure and offers great value. Capturing the bright orchard fruit flavors that make Chardonnays from Sonoma County so enticing. Our Stillman Street Chardonnay is a perfect complement to modern cuisine and a perfect get-together wine. “
The Stillman Street Chardonnay is crafted from highly acclaimed vineyards, receiving 91 points from Wine Enthusiasts in mid-January for the 2018 vintage, Stuhlmuller Vineyards on the banks of the Russian River where the 3 AVA’s of Alexander Valley, Chalk Hill, and Russian River converge makeup 80% of the fruit. The other 20% comes from Jaxon Keys Vineyard in Mendocino, a vineyard that was planted in 1983 and provides small yields of beautifully concentrated fruit.
The 2018 growing season in Sonoma was characterized by many winemakers as exceptional. The Spring started with a near-perfect fruit set and the weather stayed consistent throughout the summer with many fewer heat spikes than normal. The season provided for an abundant crop with clean healthy fruit.
Acclaimed winemaker Leo Hansen was at the helm once again for this vintage. Leo used older French oak barrels to ferment and age roughly 50% of the wine. The wine in the barrel was aged Sur Lie with frequent stirring for 10 months. The balance of the wine was aged in a tank to blend in its natural crisp acidity while maintaining the vineyard fresh Chardonnay characteristics
Subtle pear and apple aromas are complemented by a slight touch of oak. On the pallet, the orchard fruit flavors express themselves alongside layers of citrus, minerality, and a hint of vanilla.