Chardonnay

At J, we are fortunate to have access to amazing Chardonnay. Our ten estate vineyards are constantly monitored by our viticulturist and winemaker to ensure that the clone and soil in a specific block are perfectly matched bringing forth the best fruit flavors naturally. Russian River Valley is known for a cool, foggy climate and diversity of well-drained soils that nurture Chardonnay.

The growing season tends to be a bit longer which is fine by us. As a certified sustainable winery, our commitment extends to each of our vineyards. The more Mother Nature does to enhance the fruit, the brighter the fruit expression and complexity.

Our viticulturist carefully monitors each vineyard block and harvests the fruit when he and our winemaker determine that it has reached the optimum balance between fruit characters and acidity. This is a delicate matter that with years of walking vineyards, tasting grapes as they go through maturation, and knowing what type of wine taste profile is in mind, can this be accomplished. Careful inspection back at the Winery ensures that only the most pristine grapes move on to whole-cluster pressing in our Coquard press. This uniquely gentle press, designed in France, minimizes the extraction of harsh components from grape skins making the wine taste more refreshing and expressive.

Our Chardonnay is fermented in French oak barrels with varying toast levels and aging based on the winemaker’s preference for that specific offering. Depending on vintage conditions and that specific wine’s style, a portion undergoes malolactic fermentation in barrel, adding rich complexity and depth to the finished wine.