Jordan 2017 Chardonnay, Alexander Valley

Grapes for this 2017 Chard were sourced from a dozen vineyard blocks from six growers that Jordan has a close relationship with. Clusters were destemmed and gently pressed at night to extract freshness and acidity while avoiding astringent phenolic character from the skins. Inoculated and fermented 13 days in 61% new French oak barrels and 39% in stainless steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation limited to only 27% to ensure that aromas were not masked by a buttery component. It was given five weeks of sur-lie aging (in both stainless steel and barrel) to bring a touch of creaminess to the mid-palate. No bâtonnage was performed to preserve the delicate fruit aromas and flavors. Aging was in French oak barrels from six coopers, light toast level for 6 months.

Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored it 90 points saying "A touch of oak starts this off, with a palate built by tight-grained tannins and integrated fruit. Flavors of stone, white flowers and ripe apple combine to create a nuanced yet rich feel."