"Tantalizing and sophisticated, the 2011 Pahlmeyer Napa Valley Chardonnay offers rich aromas of toasted graham cracker, caramelized peach and lychee, and hints of tarragon and lavender. Notes of lemon zest, a touch of fresh cream and alluring acidity present a luscious composition. Beautifully balanced, with a cleansing finish, this wine will age elegantly for years." – Kale Anderson, Winemaker April 2012
Composition
100% Chardonnay
Vineyards
- Pahlmeyer Estate Vineyard,
- Stagecoach,
- Atlas Peak Vineyard
Critics
94 Points
Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate #204, December 2012
The 2011 Chardonnay is gorgeous. Layers of lemon pastry, juicy peaches, butter and spices take shape in the glass. The 2011 is a bit restrained for Pahlmeyer, but all the elements are very nicely woven together. There is plenty of varietal character and house style, but in a slightly more reserved way than readers have become accustomed to over the years, mostly because of the cool growing season. This is a beautiful and classy wine through and through.
90 Points
James Laube, Wine Spectator, July 2013
Clean and vibrant, with a spicy, flinty edge to the citrus and green apple notes, this gains depth and persistence on the finish, where the flavors fan out. Best from 2014 through 2022.
Winemaking
- Winemaker:
- Erin Green
- Alcohol:
- 14.9%
- Harvested:
- September 24 to October 20, 2011
- Bottled:
- August 21, 2012
- Released:
- April 29, 2013
The grapes were hand-sorted and gently whole-cluster pressed. After overnight settling, the juice was racked to barrels for 100% native yeast barrel fermentation followed by malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged in 90% new French oak barrels for eleven months on the lees and stirred weekly. It was not fined or sterile filtered.