Stonestreet 'Upper Barn Vineyard' Chardonnay 2016

Stonestreet Estate Vineyards is the story of a family’s vision to defy the limits of California winegrowing. Jess Stonestreet Jackson and Barbara Banke established the estate in 1995, and their son Christopher Jackson and his wife Ariel continue the legacy — and the middle name “Stonestreet” has now been passed from father to son for three generations. Stonestreet is one of the most expansive and multi-faceted mountain vineyards in the world and produces a distinctive collection of single vineyard wines — powerful Cabernet Sauvignon, soulful Chardonnay and electric Sauvignon Blanc.

The Jackson family acts as stewards of the land, caring for this 5,500 acre mountain estate that towers high above the Alexander Valley in the Mayacamas Mountain Range. Ranging 400ft to 2,400ft in elevation, the estate showcases a dramatic array of mesoclimates on peaks, valleys and ledges. The geological diversity of the mountain, which contains more soil types than all of France, confers a strong mineral characteristic in the fruit, while the challenges of farming at elevation produce smaller, more concentrated berry clusters.

Knowing that it would take more than one generation to understand the complexity of the estate, Jess Jackson notably stated, “Stonestreet has the destiny to be one of the greatest vineyard sites of all time.” As the second generation, Christopher and Ariel are building upon that legacy, pushing it forward with an ever-deepening understanding of this awe-inspiring estate.

The Upper Barn Vineyard produces our most transporting Chardonnay, delivering a truly unique wine that can only be crafted from this site 1,800ft up the mountain. The stars continue to align as this vineyard continues to produce wines with density and a dreamy mix of aromatics and texture. The texture of the 2020 Upper Barn Vineyard Chardonnay is both opulent and elegant with an acidic backbone and powerful structure that is consistent across the palate. Aromas of cantaloupe, honeycomb, and honeysuckle burst from the glass with beautiful concentration and structure that will only improve with cellaring. This wine is perfectly balanced with flavors of tropical fruit and notes of toast that fully envelope the palate. The finish is round and mouthwatering, with lingering flavors.

Wine Advocate | 97+pts.