2016 NEWTON UNFILTERED CHARDONNAY

Newton’s hallmark style of producing 100% barrel fermented Chardonnay, fermented with indigenous yeasts and bottled unfiltered, made them a benchmark for richer, more opulently styled California Chardonnay. The winery was founded by Peter Newton in 1977 after he sold Sterling Vineyards, which he founded in 1964 to Coca Cola.  He purchased property on Spring Mountain and hired David Abreu and Ric Forman to plant the vineyards.  Over the years his wines became known for their undeviating style, quality and consistency.  In the early 2000’s the winery sold to LVMH group who own Chateau d’Yquem, Château Cheval Blanc, Krug Champagne, and Dom Pérignon to name a few icons.  The winery hasn’t skipped a beat they’re still producing consistently high-scoring, stunning wines in the timeless Newton style.

Their 2016 Chardonnay arose primarily from Carneros, where well-drained soils and consistent maritime influence helped to support a long growing season and resulted in exceptional length and freshness.  The grapes were barrel fermented for a full year in French oak, where during maturation it was hand-stirred only when needed to re-suspend the sediment which resulted in a stunningly complex Chardonnay.