2014 Bien Bien Chardonnay - MAGNUM

Santa Maria Valley - Bien Nacido Vineyard

IS THE 2014 BIEN BIEN as bien as the 2013?

Yes, indeed she is. Our second year making this special barrel selection bottling, we are very excited about the outcome and to share it with you! The vines once again are old vine (40-something year old!) Chardonnay from the renowned Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria which lies Northeast of Sta. Rita Hills where our White Hill, Golden Slope and FOUR come from. Its something that will provide a lot of near term enjoyment as well as a worthy wine to age for years to come. This wine was bottled in December and as it did last year, saw a small amount of new barrel.

TASTING NOTES: Upon first opening, the oak is a bit more prominent with aromas of marzipan and rye toast. It quickly transforms within the first few minutes becoming a little more floral and fruity with notes of yellow peach, kiwi, hints of lemon thyme and white jasmine.
Front of the palate is all mineral and oyster water becoming richer on the mid-palate with a mouth-feel reminiscent of almond milk and flavors of yellow nectarine and baked Granny Smith apples. Weighty, rich and full bodied but with the acidity to back it up making your mouth water. Finishes with a long explosion of mandarin and whip cream.