Schramsberg J. Schram 2009

In 2009, rain and mild temperatures created the best scenario possible for our vineyards. There were very few frost incidents, allowing for good fruit set. Though rainfall was little more than two-thirds of normal, much of it came in late spring, delaying irrigation needs. A warm spell in June helped curtail excessive canopy and kept the vine’s attention on producing delicious fruit. With minimal heat spikes during the growing season, the vines were able to gradually ripen the fruit for picking at the optimal times.

Alcohol: 13.3%

97 POINTS - "Enticing aromas of toasted almond and pear tart lead to an equally seductive and complex palate that is dry but rich in feel. It has the complexity and layering of a wine aged a long time on the yeast, and shows excellent concentration that leads to a long, lingering finish. This is Schramsberg's top-of-the-line Chardonnay-based wine and it definitely lives up to its billing in this vintage. Best after 2023." - Wine Enthusiast

95 POINTS - "This wine shows outstanding complexities while retaining loads of beautiful fruitiness. Its aromas and flavors of ripe core fruit, creamy autolysis, and frisky citrus notes." - Wilfred Wong

93 POINTS - "Dynamic and polished, with expressive Meyer lemon and cinnamon nut roll aromas and plush and luxurious baked apple and fresh ginger flavors that glide on a long finish. Drink now through 2019." - Wine Spectator

The 2009 J. Schram opens with bright aromas of pear, pineapple and apricot, followed by nuances of custard, peach cobbler, and almond. The elegant palate features fruitful elements of apple, melon, papaya and lemon verbena. The persistent finish is driven by generous and bright acidity.