Bresa Chardonnay 2021

Bresa is a true reflection of its terroir. Bald Mountain is one of the few dry-farmed Chardonnay vineyards in California, planted in 1972 at an elevation of 1,800 feet—the vineyard’s highest point—on St. George rootstock. The combination of elevation, vine age, and rocky terrain causes the vines to ripen slowly, while the
concave shape of the land helps retain winter water,
ensuring enough reserves to sustain the vines through
the summer.

Harvest timing is determined by flavor development, as the old vines ripen at lower brix levels due to their slow metabolism. The grapes are picked at night in half-ton bins and immediately whole-cluster pressed upon arrival at the winery. The fresh juice settles for 36 hours before being racked from the heavy solids into barrels to begin fermentation.

The growing season began with limited winter rainfall, followed by a gradual transition into spring with increasing warmth. As the season progressed into early summer, the dry winter caused the grasses to yellow early, while the vines lignified, accelerating ripening. Although yields were lower than average, the resulting fruit showed exceptional concentration and intensity. The mature, well-adapted vines flourished despite the climatic challenges, producing grapes with vibrant acidity and concentrated flavors during the early harvest.

Citrus and stone fruit on the nose, accented by a hint
of flint, which adds a sense of richness and depth. On the palate, the wine is consistent from start to finish, with bright acidity balancing its density and freshness.