PHILOSOPHY
The term Blanc de Blancs originated in France's Champagne region where most champagnes are made from a combination of all three varietals grown there: the white Chardonnay grape and the red Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes. A Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine is made from Chardonnay and is usually light and delicate in style, offering citrus and floral notes.

Creating a sparkling wine with a focus on this core Champagne varietal results in a distinct style that expresses the unique qualities of Chardonnay – subtle and creamy, with a crisp delicacy. This wine is sourced entirely from our Mt. Veeder estate. Mt. Veeder enjoys the longest growing season and lowest yields in Napa Valley. With steep mountain terrain in close proximity to the cool fog of the San Pablo Bay, the vineyard site produces high quality Chardonnay with bright acidity. This wine was aged for three years on the lees lending complexity and a rich texture.

VINTAGE NOTES
2005 was great year for both quantity and quality. Napa Valley experienced a very wet season through June and an early bud break. Continued wet and cool conditions through the summer resulted in high vine vigor and an even, slow ripening period. The high yield of grapes had very ripe flavors, good sugars and high acidity; a perfect combination.

TASTING NOTES
A complex wine with an appealing pale gold color, fresh acidity and a creamy mouthfeel. Aromas of orange blossoms and honeysuckle mingle with fresh almonds, candied ginger and citrus. These aromas are echoed across the palate with layers of brioche and cocoa powder persisting on the long finish.

FOOD AND WINE PAIRING
The fresh qualities of this wine make it a natural match for an orange crème brulee or try with scallops with a lemon beurre blanc sauce.

Vintage: 2005

Appellation: Mt. Veeder

Composition:
100% Chardonnay

Aging Profile: 3 years on the yeast