WINEMAKER NOTES

This deep gold Chardonnay is rich and concentrated. On the nose, vanilla, overripe apricots, dried mango, and fresh elderflower come together to form a heady bouquet. The palate is almost sweet, with notes of apricot jam, molasses, and candied hazelnuts. The medium finish emphasizes the wine’s inherent nuttiness, and is chased by a hint of oak.

WINEMAKING TECHNIQUES

Grapes were harvested in the early morning to ensure gentle processing of cool fruit. The clusters are hand-sorted, destemmed, and crushed to release the juice straight into oak barrels. Five months of barrel fermentation with twice-monthly lees stirring (bâtonna ge) is followed by an additional six months of sur lie aging and the wine undergoes 100% malolactic fermentation to round out its acidity. Finally, the wine is then racked clean off the lees and bottled.

FRUIT SOURCE: SOBERANES VINEYARD

The Soberanes Vineyard is a premium, 38-acre vineyard located in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA in the Salinas Valley. The property has an eastward-facing alluvial terrace split into three distinct parcels, with soils that drain well and allow for desirable root penetration. Between the morning fog and cool, steady winds from the Monterey Bay, the vineyard experiences a long and steady growing season, ideal for producing exceptional wine grapes.

VINTAGE NOTES

2021 was an overall mild year, with a slightly drier than average winter and early bud break by mid March. Steady temperatures throughout the summer and into early fall led to an early, unhurried harvest. This consistency in climate produced intense and flavorful fruit.

THE WINERY

Bailarín Cellars was created in 2014 by a collective of family and friends, each following their respective passions. Together, we focus on producing small lots of handcrafted wines from unique vineyard sources. We are proud to share the fruits of our labor and love with you.