"Fresh, intense and vibrant, with an aromatic honeysuckle aroma leading to lively, concentrated pear and lemon-lime flavors. Full-bodied, clean and snappy on the long, layered finish. Drink now through 2016." - WS 91

"This Chardonnay is so delicious in citrus, tropical fruit, peach and vanilla bean flavors, brightened with brisk acidity, that you hardly miss the absence of oak." - WE 89

Metallico is Chardonnay in its purest form, without an overlay of oak to mask any of its fruit expression. The aromatics, intense fruit character and bright acidity are the goals here. This vintage of Metallico is composed of fruit from the Santa Lucia Highland and Arroyo Seco appellations. The climate in the Arroyo Seco appellation is slightly warmer than their Highlands estate and produces a Chardonnay that is more floral with intense tropical fruit. The Musque clone, selected from the Roger Rose Vineyard, brings floral notes to Metallico.

The growing season started slowly in 2009; cool, wet weather in late spring delayed the fruit by 5 - 10 days. August was more temperate, with less fog than normal. Warm weather allowed sugars to catch up, but not necessarily flavor. Patience was key. October’s “Fall Effect” brought cool nights and shorter days with moderate heat, resulting in well developed flavors and balancing acidity.

Upon arriving at the winery, the grapes were whole-cluster pressed. After pressing, the juice was cold tank fermented, retaining the essential bright tropical fruit and floral characteristics. The wine was not allowed to go through a secondary, malo-lactic fermentation and saw no oak aging, thus preserving the natural acidity and fruit.

Metallico’s aromatics are intense with pineapple and lemon, complemented by mango and jasmine. The palate has ripe fruit flavors of white peach, guava and lemon. Crisp, food-friendly acidity keeps this special wine refreshing and bright. A perfect match for shellfish, Asian-Fusion cuisine, or any spicy dishes.