Wines Current Joseph Phelps Vintages Current Freestone Vintages Past Phelps Vintages Library Wines
	BLEND & GRAPE SOURCES: 100% Chardonnay from estate-grown vineyards in Carneros and Yountville as well as from independent growers HARVEST DATES: Sep. 19 - Oct. 27, 2003 WINEMAKING DATA: Grapes were harvested at an average 25.1º Brix and fermented sur lees in French oak barrels, then subsequently aged in oak for nine months before being blended and bottled in December, 2004. The 2003 Los Carneros Chardonnay is full of pineapple, melon and floral aromas, followed by crisp flavors that are balanced by a rich creamy texture that is the hallmark of Carneros fruit. 2003 VINTAGE NOTES: A cool, wet spring seemed to forecast a vintage that would have difficulty ripening, but July and August were unusually warm without the fog-shrouded mornings typical of Napa Valley summers. Clear skies provided a complete daily dose of solar radiation to the vines and fruit, allowing for good photosynthesis and grape development, and hot weather in mid-September provided additional heat accumulation. After the heat spell broke, it was replaced by near-ideal weather conditions of overcast mornings, warm, sunny afternoons and temperatures in the low to mid eighties. Actual crop harvested was significantly lower than estimates with less than two tons per acre from many vineyards as a result of earlier crop removal to mitigate mildew. Berry size was small with excellent acid balance; and overall quality -- less variable than '02 -- appears excellent.
The Winery | Wines | Shopping | News and Events | Links | Phelps Preferred | Contact us | Home