winemaker's notes: This marks the 13th vintage for Mer Soleil Chardonnay, and captures the best of what the coastal landscape of Monterey County's wine country offers each year. Lots were aged separately in French oak barrels, about 40 percent of which were new oak. The wine was then crafted in the cellar until it was ready for bottling, producing the fully-ripened, sea-and-sun brilliance of flavor for which Mer Soleil is known. The wine opens with tropical fruit and honeysuckle aromas. Luxurious flavors of crème brulee and even a hint of butter are framed by notes of fine oak and the lively acidity of citrus zest. The mouthfeel is full and lush and brings all the wine's elements through to a long, persistent finish. |