2017 Calera Mt. Harlan Viognier
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Calera’s Mt. Harlan Vineyards are located in the Gavilan Mountains 25 miles east of the Monterey Bay. The site was chosen for its limestone soils and ideal climate. At an average elevation of 2,200 feet it is among the highest and coolest vineyard sites in California.
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Wine Profile
Production Notes
Varietal Content: 100% Viognier; Cooperage: 20% stainless drums, 20% concrete, 60% neutral French oak barrels; 100% malolactic fermentation
Winemaker Notes
To underscore the enticing complexity of this cool-climate Viognier, it was crafted using a combination of neutral French oak barrels, stainless steel and concrete tank. Alluring aromas of honeysuckle, white peach and citrus are echoed on the palate, where they mingle with luxurious notes of lemon meringue and jasmine that glide to a bright, zesty finish.
Production
A wet winter, with more than double our average annual rainfall, made for very happy vineyards in 2017. While budbreak arrived slightly later than usual, warm spring weather led to excellent fruit sets at our Mt. Harlan vineyards, with above-average yields for both Pinot Noir and our white varieties. Thanks to the abundant early season rains, and Mt. Harlan’s high elevation and marine-influenced climate, our estate vineyards weathered a significant Labor Day heat event wonderfully, producing complex and elegant wines, with beautifully balanced acids and sugars.
Wine Specs
Wine Specs
Vintage
2017
Varietal
Viognier
Appellation
Mt. Harlan
Harvest Date
October 12 - 19, 2017
Sugar
26.0° Brix at harvest
Acid
0.59 g/100 ml titratable acidity
pH
3.35
Aging
14 months in barrel
Fermentation
395 days fermentation at 60°F
Alcohol %
14.1
Wine Enthusiast
92
Wine & Spirits
93