#tinaquaic

Foxen

Dry Farmed Tinaquaic Vineyard Chardonnay 2013

This dry farmed Chardonnay from Foxen was part of a shipment, and from a vineyard I always enjoy drinking. Rancho Tinaquaic was a land grant, from Mexico, given in 1837 in which the Tinaquaic vineyard resides. The vineyard is just northeast of Los Alamos. The land grant was purchased by Foxen co-owner Dick Doré's great great grandfather. The Foxen boys typically dry farm these grapes and sometimes the results can be magnificent (e.g. 2007 Cab Franc or 2012 Syrah). Great care must be taken with the dry farmed fruit - the right soil, microclimate, and maintenance - or the grower will be left more raisin than grape. Foxen is one of the few in Santa Barbara county that still practice the craft, and practice it well. ~$37 | #foxen #chardonnay #tinaquaic

On the eyes: Clear, star bright yellow, light stain, med+ tears, no gas/floc.

On the nose: Overripe pineapple, overripe pear, jasmine, and soft cheese with a touch of salty citrus. Med alcohol.

On the tongue: Med+ acid, med tannin, med alcohol, med+ body, buttery in the mouth. Tropical fruits, (think pineapple, guava, and lychee), rounded out with cashew and orange blossom. Nice finish.
— 9 years ago