Vineyards The Sierra Mar Vineyard, owned and farmed by Gary Franscioni is one of the highest elevation vineyards in the Santa Lucia Highlands. The Santa Lucia and Gabilan mountain ranges surround the Salinas Valley and act like a conduit, directing the winds off the Pacific down the valley, cooling the region from warm inland temperatures. The afternoon winds deliver fog off the Monterey Bay, acting as a buffer and extending the growing season. The high elevation, thin soils and arid conditions produce wines of intense concentration.

Vintage The 2015 vintage offered excellent growing conditions. A mild winter and spring compounded with almost no rain contributed to early ripening, low to moderate yields and highly concentrated grapes resulting in exceptional quality. 2015 is one of the earliest vintages we’ve seen in over a decade, but it will also go down as one of the best.

Fermentation The grapes were whole –cluster pressed to tank and cold settled overnight, then racked off heavy solids to barrels. We try to retain the perfect balance of solids for palate weight and complexity. The juice was fermented with indigenous yeast to dryness. Malolactic fermentation was long and cool, also using indigenous flora.

Sensory Notes This chardonnay delivers aromas of lemon zest, graham cracker and cooking spices. The palate is bright with racy acidity and an ample mid palate. Flavors of guava, pear and lychee are immediately apparent. The finish is full of crush rock and savory dried spices.