Hawk Hill Chardonnay 2022
Sonoma Coast
Hawk Hill Vineyard is named after the Red-tailed and Cooper’s Hawks that are seen gliding above the vineyards. The vineyard is situated just east of the town of Freestone, home to Ernest's four Estate vineyard sites. There are 18 acres planted across the property that range in elevation from 386ft to 610ft. The Goldridge soils that cover the Hawk Hill Vineyard allow for good drainage, deep rooting and moderate vigor, all key components to successful farming of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes.
The costal influence and marine layer allow for an extended ripening period which develops the fruit character while maintaining the balance of fruit and acid within the grape.
Owners Margaret and Bill Yarak hold the highest standards of farming at Hawk Hill Vineyard. To maintain the quality and adhere to the land, all farming is done by hand from pruning to harvesting in the cool hours of the night.
A light and pale yellow wine with faint traces of gold, this Chardonnay immediately captivates with its level of concentration on the preliminary aromas. This wine’s richness is noticeable from the start, with a touch of cream, vanilla, and ripe stone fruits, like ripe summer peaches and apricots. The palate is quite gripping, showing a lot of tension and a remarkable concentration of fruit, acidity, and great structure. It is definitely a great example of the maritime climate of the Coast’s best vineyard sites, with tremendous acidity and grip. The tension is felt throughout the tasting, and it leaves you anxious to see what it will develop in the near future. It will only get more complex and will enjoy some cellaring.
| Winemaker | Joseph Ryan | |
| Appellation | Sonoma Coast | |
| Vineyard | Hawk Hill Vineyard | |
| Aging/Cooperage | 38% New French Oak | |
| Brix at Harvest | 21.2 | |
| Alcohol | 12.6% | |
| Production | 110 cases |