Morlet Family Ma Douce Chardonnay 2019 (75cl, 14.2%)

A white wine from the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA on the Sonoma Coast, made entirely from Chardonnay. The fruit comes from Old Wente clone vines on Goldridge soils at 1,300 to 1,500 feet, on the second ridge from the Pacific Ocean. Fermentation takes place in barrel with indigenous yeast, followed by full malolactic conversion and extended ageing sur lies with regular bâtonnage in French oak. The nose shows golden apple, Meyer lemon, pineapple candy, honeysuckle, white flowers, chamomile tea, hazelnut marzipan and toasted bread. The palate is richly textured with caramelised lemon, ripe stone fruits, orange blossom, baking spice and marine salinity. The finish is long, with toasted brioche, white flowers, citrus rind and a mineral backbone.