The 2011 growing season was one of the coldest and wettest on record in the Highlands. Above average rainfall through the spring and fall pushed back normal harvest dates. The resulting smaller crop size allowed for full ripen- ing prior to pick dates from October 17th to the 28th.
The Vineyard
The Double L Vineyard is well situated to produce Chardonnay of the highest caliber. Located near the northern tip of the Santa Lucia High- lands AVA, the vineyard receives brisk afternoon breezes from nearby Monterey Bay. North-south vineyard row orientation allows for optimum sun exposure on The Highlands’ east - facing terraces. Wind and sun combine for a long growing season, resulting in vibrant fruit flavors with balanced acidity. The vineyard was certified organic in 2002, although it has been conscientiously farmed in this method since the original plantings in 1997.
The Process
The grapes were picked when the flavor and acid balance was optimal. Hand sorted grapes were gently pressed as whole clusters to yield the highest quality juice. The juice was fermented in French oak - 30% new and a combination of one & two year old barrels. Partial malo-lactic fermentation and lees stirring was conducted to obtain the trademark “Morgan balance”: creaminess with bright tropical fruit and minerality.
The Experience
Creme brulee, grapefruit and hazelnut aromas are backed by sweet spice of lightly toasted oak. Apricot, white peach, apple and citrus flavors are complemented by a touch of creaminess and elegant, bright acidity. One of the finest food wines, the Double L Chardonnay will pair wonderfully with seafood and poultry dishes, as well as a buttery steak.
The Facts
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands
Barrel Aging: 10 months in 100% French oak
Alcohol: 14.3%
pH: 3.24
Acidity: 7.5 g/L
Malo-latic: 20%
Conscientious, innovative farming regimens allied with traditional, “minimalist” winemaking techniques craft wines of balance, elegance and distinction. For Morgan Winery, this single-minded focus has produced a record of consistent, category leading, award winning wines.
Dan’s goal is to produce wines that are “true” - true to the variety and vineyard source and show true balance and complexity, while being enjoyable upon release. Morgan delivers consistency from bottle to bottle, vintage to vintage by nurturing sustainable, long-term relationships with their own vineyard and cellar crews, top-notch growers, and the finest French barrel coopers.
In 2005, Gianni Abate joined Morgan as winemaker, allowing Dan Lee to concentrate on developing the Double L Estate. The creative partnership between Dan and Gianni has proved highly successful, taking the Morgan portfolio to new heights in quality and popularity.
| Aging Potential: | Ready to Drink |
| Alcohol by Volume: | 14.3% |
| Barrel Type: | French Oak |
| Body: | Medium |
| Color: | Golden Yellow |
| Flavor Pairing: | Buttery |
| Food Pairing: | Steak, Seafood, Poultry |
| On the Nose: | Vanilla, Hazelnut, Grapefruit, Citrus Fruit |
| On the Palate: | White Peach, Citrus Fruit, Apricot, Apple |
| Serving Recommendation: | Slightly Chilled, Pop the Cork & Enjoy! |
| Special Features: | Certified Organic Grapes |
| Texture: | Creamy |
| Varietal: | Chardonnay |
