"The Dom Perignon of Virginia Wine" - Jay Youmans, Master of Wine. April 29, 2021

Terroir:

This wine is made from 100% estate grown fruit. Our vines are sheltered in the foothills of Carter’s Mountain in the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA).

Vintage Notes:

After a good start to the growing season, the hot and dry summer led to early flavor development and ripeness, which allowed us to pick one week earlier than expected in August.

Winemaker's Notes:

The 2016 Reserve is our signature sparkling wine which reflects the best techniques and aging methods of the vintage Méthode Champenoise process.  The chardonnay grapes for this wine were harvested from the oldest block on our estate-grown vineyard.  This block, with its age and north-facing slope, holds acidity and allows for the grapes to mature more slowly.  Picking these grapes at peak ripeness and gentle pressing, recovering only the coeur de cuvee, provided the perfect wine for aging.  Aging in 65% stainless steel tanks, as well as 35% neutral French oak, gives the wine a more soft and structured mouthfeel.  This wine was then aged on tirage for 5 years.  This aging time on its lees allowed the true flavors of champenoise process to develop.  At disgorging, a low amount of dosage finished this wine in a Brut style, which is balanced, rich, and delightful.

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