Atrea The Choir 2008

Vintage and Release Information

Mendocino County White Wine 2008
Released January 5, 2010
Production of 338 cases

Varietal Composition

60% roussanne, 40% viognier

Technical Data

14.4% alcohol by volume
0.62 gm/100 ml titratable acidity
pH 3.38
Bottled December 17, 2009

Vineyards and Harvest

The grapes were sourced both from our organically certified estate vineyard and from the low-yield, organically certified Lakeview Vineyards in the Sanel Valley appellation of Mendocino County.  The roussanne and viognier blocks were harvested by hand between September 26 and September 29 following a "textbook perfect" growing season.  The fruit was intensely perfumed, and the sugar/acid balance was ideal.  The lots were whole-cluster pressed in the early morning hours to preserve their inherent aromatics and verve.

Winemaking and Cooperage

The grapes were barrel fermented (50% in small stainless steel barrels and 50% in neutral French oak) using native yeast and did not undergo malolactic fermentation.  The wine remained sur lie for eight months with bi-monthly batonnage.

Winemaker

Alex MacGregor

Consulting Winemaker

David Ramey

Winemaker's Comments

The hugely aromatic nose of apricot, honeysuckle, orange blossoms and jasmine has become the hallmark of The Choir.  The palate carries similar flavors with emphasis on pitted fruits.  It sports richness without excess weight.  Wine can be powerful and vibrant simultaneously when made well, as The Choir demonstrates.  This wine will appeal to the "ABC" (anything but chardonnay) crowd.