All of the Chardonnays are hand-made wines that are whole cluster fermented with indigenous yeasts, put through full malolactic fermentation, aged in approximately 60% new oak, and bottled without filtration. They possess firm backbones (from good acidity), as well as strong personalities. Made from extremely small yields, the 1996 Chardonnay South River Vineyard (made from a Hanzell clone) possesses phenomenal ripeness and intensity, and a finish that lasts for more than 30 seconds. This full-bodied, high octane Chardonnay offers plenty of buttery, honeyed tropical fruits, as well as the smoky sur lie complexity so common in top-class white Burgundy. Despite its tightness, this is a sensational effort that should age well for 3-4 years. Tel. (707) 433-2305; Fax (707) 433-2358