Chardonnay

Located in the rugged terrain of northern California, near the banks of the Upper Russian River and the foothills of the Mayacamas, Saracina Vineyards encompasses a 400-acre working ranch and California Certified Sustainable winery. Amidst breathtaking vistas and rolling hills, this biodiverse estate boasts a grove of 140-year-old olive trees, vegetable gardens, beehives, alpacas, goats, and a variety of native wildlife. Family lies at the core of the estate—a principle upheld since its establishment in 2001. Since 2018, the Taub family has proudly stewarded the land, forging an even stronger foundation for excellence through extensive soil analysis and pioneering a full organic conversion and water conservation system. With Saracina Vineyards, the Taub family is committed to bringing Mendocino to the forefront of quality winemaking, showcasing the unique terroir and dedication to sustainability that define their approach.

The growing season was marked by perfectly timed precipitation, with slightly below average yields and cluster weights. The concentration of fruit was simply astounding. We began harvest with Orsi on September 3 and wrapped up with the old vine fruit at Lolonis on September 7, a very compact harvest.

In tribute to the uniqueness of our chosen Chardonnay sites, the fruit was whole cluster pressed, settled, and fermented to dryness in both stainless steel and neutral oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation was inhibited to keep the wine fresh and bright. The wine remained on primary lees for just less than three months prior to blending to retain the pure expression of fruit for which we strive.

Our 2024 Mendocino County Chardonnay offers aromas of Bosc pear, white flowers and a crisp, snappy sweet pea note. The palate shows stone fruit and citrus flavors that are light and lively, unhampered by overbearing new oak or malolactic influence. This is a pure expression of Chardonnay, a ray of sunshine that carries itself admirably without excess weight.