La Sirena 2020 Chardonnay, Russian River Valley

Heidi Barrett, the original Screaming Eagle winemaker just announced a brand new wine from La Sirena! Although she made Chardonnay a number of times for her clients over the years, she was not compelled to make her own until a special vineyard site became available in 2016. Well-known vineyard manager Ulysses Valdez told her he had a few tons available from the Rued family original vineyard planted in 1969. She was enticed to have a look, and from there this beautiful Chardonnay was born. Only 173 cases were produced – so hurry!

Heidi’s notes: ”Sourced from the original 1969 planting of the Rued clone of Chardonnay, which is known for its somewhat tropical aromatics – some even refer to it as the Muscat clone of Chardonnay. Brilliant light straw in color with beautiful aromatics: green apple, pineapple, grapefruit, minerality, crème brulee, and a touch of toasty French Oak. Across the palate it’s layered with flavors similar to the aromas, with crisp acidity in a fresh, mouthwatering Chablis-like style (non-malolactic). The minerality of the place comes through from the rocky hillside vineyard in the Russian River Valley. A delightfully complex, elegant and food-friendly Chardonnay that was barrel aged on the lees for 10 months.”