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Stonegate is one of the true Napa Valley pioneers, having established itself in the early 1970s, way before it was the most famous wine address in the United States. They started with the European ethic of finding the best grapes they could, and when they couldn't, they planted their own. Head winemaker, Virginia Lambrix, studied horticulture and agronomy in the Master's program at the University of California - Davis, with an emphasis on viticulture and enology. Upon graduation, she landed a viticulture job at the Hendry Ranch in Napa, and in 2004, worked in Chile for Concha y Toro. With global viticulture experience, she returned to California to join the teams at Lynmar Estate and DeLoach Vineyards, both in the Russian River Valley. From working in the vineyards and learning from the region's best winemakers, Virginia has the sensibilities required of cool-climate winemaking. Stonegate wines are a fusion of this elegant hand in winemaking and the profuse character of Napa Valley's and North Coast's finest fruit sources. Stonegate's California appellation wines are sourced from vineyards they know personally that deliver big flavor at a moderate prices. The Collection Series comes in a selection of Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as a Red Field Blend. Fruit for the Collection Series wines is sourced from choice coastal vineyard locales. A marine layer hovers in these districts, ensuring balanced ripening and mouth-filling flavor. A regimen of new and used French and American cooperage adds spice and depth of flavor. This wine is 100% Chardonnay, 67% from Mendocino County and 33% from Monterey County. It is made from grapes in the esteemed North Coast region of California and barrel fermented to produce rich yet fruit-forward flavors. Crisp tropical fruit aromas and a hint of butterscotch abound here along with a warm, yeasty aroma reminiscent of freshly baked bread. Ripe melon, lemon zest and caramel flavors round out the stunning finish that would be perfect with seared halibut in a cilantro pesto. February 2012 Vintners Series Newsletter (.pdf) Vintners Series February 2012 from Wine of the Month Club on Vimeo. |
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