Harvest and Production
The Pirate Reserve is a Dijon clone of Chardonnay comes from Block 10 at Skyline Vineyard. Harvested on September 23rd, 2023, the fruit was split into two lots: one protected with SOâ‚‚ and dry ice for a classic, fresh expression, and a second pressed with intentional oxidation to enhance savory complexity.
Each style was aged in one new and one neutral lightly toasted French oak barre for a total of four barrels. This 50/50 blend of oxidized and non-oxidized lots creates a unique balance between purity and depth. Fermentation was carried out with a mix of yeast strains and inoculated for malolactic fermentation. The wine remained on lees in barrel for structure and mouthfeel.
Tasting Notes
What we love about this Chardonnay is how it balances oak and richness with clean fruit flavors. Lime zest, lemon shortbread, and a gentle touch of Chardonnay character come through on a clean, restrained palate. It’s light-bodied, with just a kiss of oak, and finishes with a lingering, citrusy brightness that’s more lime than lemon.
A Chardonnay for some people who say they don’t like Chardonnay—and a treat for those who do.
Food Pairing Suggestion
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Fresh oysters or shellfish with lime
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Roast chicken with lemon and herbs
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Scallops with brown butter and capers
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Arugula salad with goat cheese and citrus vinaigrette
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Shortbread cookies with sea salt and lemon zest