Guarachi Family Wines’ Chardonnay is from the esteemed Farina Vineyard located in Bennett Valley, Sonoma County. The Farina Vineyard lies in a sloping saddle on the eastern side of Sonoma Mountain near the top of the appellation. The upper edge of the vineyard is composed of granitic, rock piles. The terroir consists of poor soils that restrict the vines as well as excellent drainage that keeps the berries small and thick skinned. Forbidding, the vineyard is similar in geography to the great Grenache landscapes in Priorat of Spain.
The weather of Farina Vineyards is moderated by the cooling effects of coastal fog and gentle, maritime breezes. The 2008 growing season had this desirable climate of Sonoma Mountain. Consisting of moderate temperatures with foggy mornings and cool nights, these conditions were ideal for our 15-year-old Chardonnay vines to reach maturity. We harvested in September 2008 a total of 10 tons from Farina Vineyard and produced a limited 580 cases.
After a night harvest in September, the 2008 Chardonnay underwent malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels and was aged for 11 months. This 2008 Chardonnay has a golden-hued color and is a wine loaded with flavors of succulent pear, ripe apple, hazelnuts, brioche, and a dollop of creamy, European butter. The crisp acidity balances this wine and allows it have a cellaring potential of 5-7 years. It has a delicately long finish.
