The 2011 “3 Starrs Vineyard” Chardonnay is the first from our Russian River Estate. The ‘3 Starrs Vineyard’ is a barrel-shaped bench with excellent airflow, good drainage, and soils that are an alluvial mix of volcanic and clay. The vineyard has 23.5 acres of Chardonnay planted primarily to Wente and Robert Young clones. There are also 5.5 acres of Pinot Noir. In the heart of the Russian River Valley, gentle fog, warm sun and cooling maritime breezes make these rolling hills one of the greatest places on earth for growing Chardonnay. This 2011 “3 Starrs Vineyard” Chardonnay exemplifies the balance we strive for in our wines. The nose reveals honeysuckle, orange blossom, and ripe Charentais melon. Meyer lemon emerges on the palate and is balanced by a nuance of vanilla and cardamom. Fifteen months of on lees barrel aging in French oak (60% new) augments the rich textural profile that is the hallmark of our Chardonnay.