Winemaker's Notes
This wine juxtaposes my favorite parts of California barrel fermented Chardonnay and old-world restraint, acidity and lift. Left in barrel nearly 2 full years, the yeast continued to ‘give back’ to the wine in the form of texture, nuance of non-fruit elements, continuity and persistence.
Lemon curd, a tiny hint of lime, golden delicious apple with a wee dram of the smell of the first rain of the fall on the sidewalk. A mouthwatering entry and surprising viscosity for the acidity level and aromatic cues, the oak and lees have integrated into a savory, non-fruit counterpoint to the initial fruit elements on the aromas. It’s about as seamless as they get just a couple months after bottling. I think 2018 is a fantastic vintage for this variety in Sonoma County in general.
Judi Scherrer –
California Grapevine – January 2021
Medium-light golden yellow; attractive, fragrant, baked apple, lemon, and stone fruit aroma with spicy and tropical notes, and a hint of crème brulée; medium to medium full body; citrus and apple flavors with nice acid balance and pleasing richness in the slightly creamy mouthfeel; lingering aftertaste. Very highly recommended. My Score: 91/100 Nick Ponomareoff
Judi Scherrer –
International Wine Review – November 2021
Sumptuous nose–orange blossom, lemon meringue, crisp apple. This is an impressive, elegant and superbly balanced wine with phenolically ripe fruit on a vibrant, creamy palate. Outstanding, dense, long finish. Sourced from a low vigor, tightly spaced vineyard planted in 1993 to the Hyde Wente selection. Fermented with ambient yeast, natural malo, in 40% new French oak. 94 points. Don Winkler
Judi Scherrer –
Vinous – July 2021
The 2018 Chardonnay Scherrer Vineyard is fascinating to taste next to the Helfer. Bright floral notes give the Scherrer its distinctive, effusive bouquet. Lemon peel, white flowers, mint, chalk and dried herbs lead into a pointed, driving finish laced with savory and mineral underpinnings. 92 points. Antonio Galloni