Columbia Crest Grand Estates Chardonnay

Notes - Founded over 20 years ago Coumbia Crest is one of the foremost wine producers in Washington State. In 1978 Columbia Crest planted grapes in eastern Washington’s Horse Heaven Hills along the Columbia River. The appellation straddles the 46th (north) parallel—the same latitude as central France. Not surprisingly, the major Bordeaux varietals (Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) do well in the Columbia Valley. The large estate and riverside location gives the winemakers a wide range of microclimates to work with. Variations in the soils deposited by the river, the angle and orientation of riverside slopes, and temperature variations comprise the “terroir”. The vineyards are also protected from the Pacific Northwest's rain by the Cascade Mountains, which prevent precipitation from moving into the state’s interior. This “rain shadow” gives three great advantages - firstly, there are hundreds of days of sunshire a year, so grapes ripen fully. Secondly, the valley receives only 6 to 8 inches of rain a year, so it is easy to carefully regulate irrigation. Thirdly, it's a rare year when rain adversely affects any part of the growing or harvest season. Tasting Notes "Intense aromas of apple and pear lead into hints of melon and creamy butter on the palate of this refined Chardonnay. The lingering finish is a lush balance of sweet oak, caramelised sugar, and fruit." Ray Einberger, Columbia Crest Winemaker.
 
     

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