2013 Stratus Chardonnay

With a flinty, mineral-driven nose, the wine opens into layers of warm peach cobbler, baked pear, and toasted almond. A creamy, velvety texture is elevated by a zing of acidity that brings brightness and balance. Rich notes of brown butter, butterscotch, and a playful hint of popcorn lend a quirky charm, while the oak spice is subtle and seamlessly woven. Full-bodied yet refined, this is a Chardonnay that speaks to both place and patience.

2013 started off well with a mild winter, and bud break was only slightly delayed by the cool spring. The warmth of August and September balanced the slow arrival of summer heat and dryness. October’s on-average warmer daytime temperatures, combined with cooler temperatures at night, helped to increase sugars while maintaining good acidity in the fruit. There was little mildew concern despite summer/fall humidity, and pest pressure was low as well. Thanks to the higher overall moisture levels of the growing season, we had greater crop volumes in most whites and quick-ripening reds. Early fall frosts allowed for fast grape desiccation in later-ripening reds, leading to excellent flavour concentration. Harvest dates were near Stratus-normal, i.e. later reds were harvested in November and even December. Winter arrived precipitously and with it, a record early Icewine harvest.