2024 Cliff Lede Chardonnay

Tasting Notes

The delightful nose of our 2024 Chardonnay teases warm pear and crisp Gravenstein apple, while elderflowers dance invitingly atop the glass. Nutmeg, buttery brioche, marzipan, and luscious apricot flavors gracefully float across the palate. The racy acidity keeps a spine of freshness running through the finish, and a crescendo of wet stone and orange oil leads to an enticing minerally finish.

The fruit was hand-harvested in the cool darkness of night and arrived at the winery at dawn. The grapes were then held in controlled low-oxygen and cold temperatures. Gentle, whole-cluster pressing released the delicate, prized juices, creating a deeper level of complexity. The juice was fermented in 85% new French oak barrels. All fermentations were conducted at cold temperatures to preserve the freshness of the fruit. Upon reaching dryness, the wine was aged on its lees, and select lots underwent occasional bâtonnage.

About Cliff Lede Vineyards

Cliff Lede Vineyards was established in 2002 by Canadian born Bordeaux enthusiast, Cliff Lede, following the acquisition of a sixty acre estate in the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley. With a focus on producing wines from estate vineyards, Lede tapped David Abreu, considered the best viticulturist in Napa Valley, to replant the vineyards. Lede decided to name each vineyard block after some of his favorite rock songs and albums—from “My Generation” to “Dark Side of the Moon,” creating what is known today as the Cliff Lede Vineyards “Rock Blocks.” In 2005, a state of the art, 25,000 square foot winery and cave system was etched into a hillside overlooking the estate vineyards. Not only did Cliff create a beautiful property, he also assembled an unrivaled team that shares his passion for quality. Today, Winemaker Christopher Tynan crafts Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, with the flagship, Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from the steep eastern hillside portion of the estate. In 2015, Cliff Lede Vineyards achieved both Napa Green Land and Napa Green Winery certification.