“UNOAKED” CHARDONNAY
Saracina
APPELLATION
Mendocino County
GRAPE VARIETIES
100% Chardonnay
WINEMAKERS
Alex MacGregor
TECHNICAL DATA
Acidity
3.62
Alcohol
13.3%
90POINTS
91POINTS
Saracina is located along the Upper Russian River in northern California’s wine country. The 400-acre ranch which includes a winery and sustainably farmed vineyards, is also home to a 140-year-old olive trees, vegetable gardens, beehives, and local birds and wildlife. The handcrafted, limited production Saracina wines reflect a conscious sense of this beautiful place in Mendocino County. Founded by husband and wife team John Fetzer and Patty Rock in 2001, Saracina has always been defined by a strong sense of family. In 2018, Marc Taub took on stewardship of Saracina, upholding the spirit of family ownership that has defined this iconic Mendocino County winery since inception.
TERROIR & VINTAGE NOTESThe grapes come entirely from the Saracina ranch. The vines are 40 years old, clone 4, and are planted on soils influenced by the Russian River. The older vine blocks that comprised the original Sundial Chardonnay are ideally suited for the modern Saracina version of that classic. All of the blocks are on the vanguard of true sustainability, having been some of the first in the state to be certified by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.
The growing season of 2021 began evenly, with no major hiccups. Low precipitation during the previous winter and spring led to below average cluster weights and yields, thus superior concentration and flavors. Harvest began on August 26, 2021 with Block A1, and the more moderate A2 was brought in just two days later.
The fruit was whole cluster pressed, settled, and fermented to dryness entirely in stainless steel. Malolactic fermentation was inhibited to keep the wine fresh and bright. The wine remained on primary lees for less than three months prior to blending to retain the pure expression of fruit.
TASTING NOTESThe 2021 Unoaked Chardonnay offers aromas of Asian pear, nectarine, and a crisp, snappy sweet pea note. The palate shows stone fruit and citrus flavors that are light and lively, unhampered by overbearing oak or malolactic influence. This is a pure expression of Chardonnay, a ray of sunshine that carries itself admirably without weight. Pair this versatile wine with simple steamed fish with fresh summer herbs or move to the grill and serve it with chicken paillards with romesco.
RESOURCES
Saracina Portfolio
