Joseph Phelps Vineyards: 2002 Los Carneros Chardonnay

Wines

Current Joseph Phelps Vintages
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Rhône-Style Wines
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BLEND & GRAPE SOURCES:
100% Chardonnay from estate-grown vineyards in Carneros and Yountville as well as from independent growers

HARVEST DATES: Sep. 17 – Oct. 23, 2002.

WINEMAKING DATA:
Grapes were harvested at an average 24.6º Brix and fermented sur lees in French oak barrels, then subsequently aged in oak for nine months before being blended and bottled in April, 2004.

The 2002 Los Carneros Chardonnay boasts mineral and citrus-like aromas, ripe fruit flavors framed by toasty oak, and a long, well-balanced finish.

The 2002 vintage began much drier and cooler than 2001 and by the end of April we measured an average of 6 inches less rain than during the first quarter of the previous year. Consistent warmth throughout the summer, along with 20 days of morning fog for both July and August, resulted in vine development running at full efficiency — shoot and leaf growth was strong and vine canopies were entirely filled with leaves to capture the sun’s energy.

In September the weather pattern changed dramatically. High temperatures and dry north winds caused vine physiology to respond with an increase in sugar and a drop in acidity. Fortunately, the summer months had promoted remarkably strong color and flavor development, enabling healthy vineyards to withstand the September heat wave and ripen
to full maturity.