Crafted for vibrancy and approachability, our “Bear” Chardonnay - affectionately named for Eric Savics’ eldest son, Eric Jr. - pours a pale gold and immediately lifts with a lively aromatic profile of lemon pith, fresh sea breeze, and Granny Smith apple.
Subtle layers of orange zest and white rose add complexity, leading to a palate that is bright and precise, with notes of fresh peach, marzipan, and lemon cream intertwined with a delicate mineral salinity. A slightly chalky yet rounded texture comes from 10 months on lees in seasoned barrels, giving the wine both energy and softness.
WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Harvested between September 20 and October 3, the 2025 Bear Chardonnay is an estate-grown blend of clones 76, 95, and 548. Grapes were gently whole-bunch pressed, and the wine fermented in a mix of neutral barriques (29%), puncheons (37%), and stainless steel (33%).
Two-thirds of the blend spent four months in neutral barrels, with barrels aging on lees for 3.5 months and stainless steel components for 2 months. All components were fermented wild, and malolactic fermentation was approximately 50–60% depending on the barrel, producing a wine that is expressive, layered, and texturally engaging while remaining fresh and precise.
TECHNICAL INFO
100% Chardonnay
Alcohol: 12.9%
Residual Sweetness: .21 g/L
pH: 3.49
Total Acidity: 5.72 g/L
