2007 Michael Shaps Chardonnay

This is the first release under the Michael Shaps label. After years of making Chardonnay for other labels as well as in Burgundy, Michael is proud to produce one under his own label. This Chardonnay is produced from grapes grown at the Wild Meadow Vineyard in Hillsboro, Virginia using the Dijon clone #96 and fermented with a native yeast strain. This wine was made in 50% new oak with a native fermentation that lasted six weeks. The result is a Chardonnay with unique character. The native yeast fermentation has produced a complexity of aromas that are held together with the richness of French oak. The "sur lies" aging gives the wine weight and complexity that integrates well with the acidity and fruit structure. With special care and attention to details, this wine shows that Virginia can make an elegant Chardonnay with a lot of character. 150 cases.