The 2022 vintage is comprised of 100% Curtis clone Chardonnay and is definitely a show stopper with poached pear and Meyer lemon jumping out of the glass. The palate shows hints of vanilla and bright acidity. The lees contact in barrel, and battonagé (hand stirring of the barrels) during aging adds weight and silkiness on the palate, and notes of toasty brioche that follow through to the finish. All of these components come together seamlessly throughout this elegant and complex Chardonnay.
This 35-acre vineyard was planted in beautiful Goldridge sandy loam soils by the Stilings in 1988, and is now owned and farmed by the Dehlinger family. This vineyard is planted to three different clones: Rued, Sees, and Curtis clones. A hidden gem, it sits nestled right in between the vineyards of Dehlinger and Kistler, out in the rolling coastal hills northeast of Sebastopol. This cooler climate allows the fruit to hang longer and develop more complex flavor, while still maintaining fresh acidity, and lower sugar. The Stiling vineyard exhibits how truly great a wine can be when the harmony of location, soil, clonal selection, and meticulous farming come together in the vineyard.
128 cases produced
Ten months in 100% French Oak barrels, 40% New Oak
Upon release and for 4-6 years from vintage