2008 VENTANA GOLD STRIPE CHARDONNAY

Ventana “Gold Stripe” Chardonnay has lively tropical fruit aromas of pineapple and mango. It is well balanced and tastes of Gala apple, pear and lemon zest. Aging in French Oak adds accents of vanilla and light honey tones. The perfect balance of fruit, oak and acidity makes this an exceptional sipping and food friendly Chardonnay. Enchanting with Dungeness Crab or Scallop Risotto; Gold Stripe Chardonnay will also pair nicely with an Apple Spiced Pork Roast.

The cool climate region of Arroyo Seco allows for a long hang time for the chardonnay grapes and results in intense tropical flavored Chardonnay.

After gentle pressing, the juice is chilled for 36-48 hours. Then half is racked into French barrels for fermentation and the other half into stainless steel. The wine ferments cool to retain the intense tropical qualities of the fruit. Next it is allowed to rest on its lees, using a battonage program.

12,300

"The 2008 Gold Stripe Chardonnay is a take-anywhere, eat-with-everything kind of wine. It’s drinkable, delicious—and very reasonably priced..." http://www.goodtimessantacruz.com/santa-cruz-wine-reviews/1623-ventana-vineyards-chardonnay-2008.html