Chardonnay Route 121, Carneros – 2012
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Introduction
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RouteStock creates wines from classic grape varieties grown along well-known routes in the world’s most respected wine regions. Tried, trusted and true to their routes, these wines are handcrafted by our winemakers to be approachable and a reliable favorite.
Route 121
Route 121 meanders through Carneros (“ram” in Spanish), a region once known for its sheep populations. On a drive down Route 121 you will pass many of the vineyards that supplied perfectly ripe grapes for this Carneros Chardonnay.
Carneros is well-known as a cool-climate region, perfect for growing Chardonnay. The morning fog and afternoon breezes off the chilly San Pablo Bay cool the region, while the Napa and Sonoma valleys to the north heat it up. This heat causes the air to draw inland over Carneros, drying the vines of the moist morning fog. As night falls, the fog rolls in, protecting the vines from potential morning sun.
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Vintage Report
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“Classic” and “perfect” are just two accolades being bestowed upon the 2012 Napa Valley growing season and harvest. Textbook conditions saw near-ideal spring budbreak, steady flowering, even fruit-set, and a lengthy stretch of warm days and cool and often foggy nights during the long summer months. Late and light rains held off until Napa Valley’s treasured wine grapes found optimal ripeness, bringing exceptional quality to the crush pad and into the cellar. –Napa Valley Vintners: Napa Valley Harvest Report 2012
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Vinification
- Barrel Aging: 25% new French oak
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
- Production (in cases): 4,118 cases
- Production Case Pack: 12/750ml
- Alcohol: 14.5%
- TA: 5.7g/L
- p H: 3.59
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Tasting Notes
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RouteStock 2012 Chardonnay’s beautiful aromas of almond, honey, guava and white peach and delicate toasty oak notes characterize this wine. The palate is creamy, with flavors of Fuji apple, pear and ripe citrus that linger on the palate. –Wayne Donaldson, Winemaker
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Images
Reviews
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Chardonnay Route 121, Carneros – 2012 – 89 points – Wine Enthusiast
"Apple and fig are layered throughout this elegant, medium-bodied wine that offers the ripeness of a warm vintage without veering into sweetness. The barrel impact is managed well, adding to the impact of honey and dried nuts on the finish."
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Chardonnay Route 121, Carneros – 2012 – Best Buy – Wine & Spirits
"Plump as a golden raisin, this is a generous Carneros chardonnay without the usual price tag. A by-the-case wine for parties."
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Chardonnay Route 121, Carneros – 2012
RouteStock 2012 Chardonnay’s beautiful aromas of almond, honey, guava and white peach and delicate toasty oak notes characterize this wine. The palate is creamy, with flavors of Fuji apple, pear and ripe citrus that linger on the palate.