cropthreash

 

 

2006 CHARDONNAY BIEN NACIDO
Santa Maria Valley

I would say this is a traditional California chardonnay, but everyone who tasted it on my recent trip to Portland and Seattle thought it was emphatically unlike any California chardonnay they had ever tasted. It was well received, because it seems people are tired of the flat, over-oaked examples they often taste.

I think the fruity aroma from Bien Nacido is not atypical for California chardonnay, but beyond that aspect I will admit it is quite different. Since 2000 we haven't used new oak barrels, but have preferred older, more neutral ones that showcase the vineyards distinctiveness, and every year we restrict the crop which helps emphasize its refreshing texture. We also pick the fruit much earlier than most winemakers do these days, because we like the herb tinged aromas and zippy acidity that are lost when grapes are harvested too ripe.

I know I often say this, but this 2006 Bien Nacido Chardonnay ranks as my favorite since we started making them in 1990.