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	BLEND & GRAPE SOURCES: 100% Chardonnay from estate-grown vineyards in Carneros and Yountville as well as from independent growers. WINEMAKING DATA: Grapes were harvested between August 29 and October 2 at an average 24.6° Brix and fermented sur lees in French oak barrels, then subsequently aged in oak for nine months before being blended and bottled on December 2, 2002. The 30 or so days comprising the time span of our Chardonnay harvest reflects the difficulty inherent in this year's growing season. Mr. Parker is correct in his analysis of the high quality of the vintage, but harvest decisions required steady nerves and patience. In the midst of ripening, a mid-September cold spell brought picking to a halt, and vintners had to decide whether to continue to harvest or hold out for warm weather and hope it arrived before the rains. JPV's commitment to picking fruit at optimal ripeness demanded we wait, and our patience was rewarded by a warm spell which began October 1st and allowed fruit to mature to desired balance, flavor and ripeness levels.. The 2001 Chardonnay, 'Los Carneros' is highlighted by tropical fruit and grilled nut flavors with an undertone of toasty oak. The wine is beautifully balanced with a long, persistent finish.
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