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	BLEND & GRAPE SOURCES: 64% estate-owned Carneros Chardonnay; 26% estate-owned Yountville Chardonnay; 10% Carneros Chardon-nay from independent growers. WINEMAKING DATA: Grapes were harvested at an average 24.4° Brix, then barrel fermented in a combination of new French oak (30%) and one- to two-year-old French oak (70%). The wine was held in barrel a total of 14 months before being blended and bottled in March, 2001. HARVEST DATES: Sept. 24 - Oct. 19, 1999 Cool temperatures in 1999 prolonged the growing season and reduced crop yields, but a warming trend in mid-July helped ripen the fruit and we were eventually able to pick small bunches of highly extractive berries. Producing Chardonnay with an emphasis on natural varietal characteristics has been realized with this vintage, and the finished wine is stunning and quite possibly the best Ovation yet. Pale in color with aromas of ripe fruit and roasted nuts, this opulent wine is supported by vibrant acidity which makes it both approachable and ageworthy.
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