Mer Soleil 2008
Mer
Soleil
 Chardonnay:

 A 
rich, 
buttery,
 barrel 
fermented 
Chardonnay
 with
 a
 sunny 
California 
profile.

The Mer Soleil Vineyard, first developed in 1988, is named for the two natural forces that create its growing conditions: sea (mer) and sun (soleil).

With plantings at two separate locations in the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation of Monterey County, Mer Soleil's Chardonnay vines are nestled on east-facing lower slopes of the Sierra de Salinas range in what is one of the coolest, driest grape-growing areas in California. The climate of this coastal appellation causes morning and evening fogs and warm, bright afternoons, a combination that helps produce the high-quality fruit we use to make this bright, elegant Chardonnay.

In the winery, all the vineyard lots are kept separate and fermented in French oak barrels chosen from an array of coopers. Depending on the vintage, a varying portion will undergo malolactic fermentation, and the length of barrel aging is adjusted lot by lot. Finally, the wine is blended, maintaining distinct layers of flavor and balanced acidity. The finished wine reveals an apparent, but not defining oak presence.

Charlie Wagner II is a fifth-generation winemaker from a family with farming and winemaking roots in the Napa Valley since the 1880's. Charlie began learning about Chardonnay production when he was just 17 years of age.

Tasting Notes - Mer Soleil 2008
Citrus driven nose. Hints of matchstick, pineapple, banana and coconut. Soft and round entry. Oak is apparent, but not defining. Mid-palate goes on to reveal other layers of flavors – vanilla, lemon meringue pie and again coconut. Finish is rich with viscosity that coats the mouth for minutes after your last sip.

Enjoy slightly chilled.
Charlie Wagner II
Winemaker
Release date: August 2010