NAPA VALLEY CHARDONNAY

The San Pablo Bay brings morning fog and cool breezes to southern Napa Valley, creating one of the coolest growing regions in Napa. This weather influence is responsible for our Chardonnay grapes maintaining well balanced acidity and moderate sugar levels. Vineyard sites are chosen to support a diverse selection of Chardonnay plantings and well-drained soils, giving winemaker Dave Guffy the freedom to add layers of complex flavors to the wine.

TASTE WITH THE WINEMAKER

"In order to highlight the beautiful structure of our Napa Valley Chardonnay, we barrel fermented for 10 months, to complement the fresh flavors of white peach and green apple. While barrel aging, we stirred the wine on its lees to add complexity and roundness. Our Hess Collection Napa Valley Chardonnay offers elegant aromas of jasmine and honeysuckle, which harmonize with the delicious flavors of white peach, all enveloped in a beautiful finish of subtle vanilla, baking spice and toffee notes.”

– Dave Guffy, Director of Winemaking

VINTAGE NOTES

Vintage 2021 began with a warm spring and little rain. By the time midsummer was approaching it was clear that we were experiencing severe drought conditions, leading to fewer grape clusters on the vine. This resulted in lower yields with small berries that were packed with intense, lush flavor. Early ripening, sunny summer heat, and a lack of water were balanced out by a very welcomed cool fall season. The more temperate fall weather created the perfect conditions for our fruit to continue ripening steadily and allowed us to harvest at the optimal moment. Vintage 2021 will continue to be celebrated for its dense fruit, bold structure, and unforgettable complexity.