We grown Chardonnay on two mountaintops, Mount
Eden and Domaine Eden. All the viticulture and winemaking is the
same for both. What is different is the expression. As we go through
the barrels in early spring- after the wines have finished their
fermentations - we look for distinctions based on ageability. The
Saratoga Cuvee selections show an earlier drinking personality, more
precocious as it were. While the Estate wine is more reserved and
destined for bottle evolution.
With that preamble, this vintage displays
classic Old World aromas of hazelnut, lanolin and cherry pit. The
palate is nicely textured from barrel fermentation, sur-lie
ageing and minimal processing. Expect a slow, positive evolution
(this is Mount Eden, you know) over the next five years.
Total production: 2,513 cases
The Wine Advocate #196 August 2011
90 points "The Mount Eden 2008 Chardonnay Saratoga Cuvee
flows from the glass with layers of juicy, varietal fruit. A sweet
harmonious finish rounds things out in style. The Saratoga Cuvee is
made from the estate’s more forward wines in barrel and is meant to
be approachable early. It is a gorgeous, reasonably priced wine from
Mount Eden. " Antonio Galloni
