Wines Current Joseph Phelps Vintages Current Freestone Vintages Past Phelps Vintages Rhône-Style Wines Library Wines
	BLEND & GRAPE SOURCES: 100% Chardonnay from our Los Carneros Vineyard (62%) and independent growers (38%) HARVEST DATES: Sept. 25 - Oct. 23, 2002 WINEMAKING DATA: Grapes were harvested at an average 25.1° Brix, then fermented and held on the lees for 9 months in 60-gallon French oak barrels (40% new and 60% six-months old). The wine was then racked off the lees and given an additional 6 months barrel age before being bottled in April, 2004. Ovation Chardonnay is typically characterized by tropical fruit flavors, bright acidity and a rich mouthfeel. Predominant in 2002 are aromas and flavors of mango, green pineapple and papaya, followed by a smooth, delicate, seductive finish. In July and August of 2002 a total of 40 days were marked by cool, foggy mornings and warm, sunny afternoons, allowing vines to photosynthesize at full efficiency so that by late August grapes displayed remarkable flavor development. Although September was marked by a series of heat waves which caused sugars to rise dramatically, vineyards located in the cooler Carneros District were able to withstand the hot weather and produce full flavored fruit at optimal sugar/acid levels. WINEMAKING QUOTES: "More typically Californian, the 2002 Ovation exhibits abundant quantities of tropical fruit, a hint of orange marmalade, good density as well as excellent definition and purity." 90 Points Robert M. Parker, Jr.s' The Wine Advocate. 12-23-03
The Winery | Wines | Shopping | News and Events | Links | Phelps Preferred | Contact us | Home