Fall Release Hoppe-Kelly Vineyard Lia Viognier
2004

Winemaker’s Notes

2004 saw a 40% drop in yield from this small one-acre hillside block below Eddie's Patch. The roots of these vines sit in less than a foot of rocky topsoil and are unable to penetrate the hard clay layer beneath, making their existence somewhat of a challenge. The result is limited canopy growth and miniscule yields of small-berried clusters, which burst forth with great peach fruit intensity. With this our third vintage of Viognier we continue to get a handle on this unusual variety in both vineyard and cellar. Harvested at full maturity with exotic, pungent flavors, we saw elevated natural acid levels as a result of the cool 2004-growing season. As adherents to bold acidity for this style of wine, we chose to block the malolactic fermentation, unlike in 2003, to preserve the wine's structure and balance in the presence of so much natural fruit extract. Regular lees stirring over 9 months intensified the mid-palate texture, creating a sense of seamless balance and length. Drink in its first year to enjoy its exuberant fruit, although the prominent acidity will ensure graceful aging for up to four years.

Pale gold color. Pungently intense aromas of sweet peach, honeysuckle, minerals and a hint of mint. The palate is at once bright and effusive showing great intensity of fresh apricot and ripe peach fruit with a honeyed spicy lemongrass edge. The wine's natural minerality and strong acid backbone dominate the back end, providing tremendous cut to the wine's rich natural extract. As with all our whites, serve at no cooler than 55 degrees to allow full flavor development.

Andy Smith