By Migration
2023 Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay Peake Ranch Vineyard

Estate
Highlighting lush, layered flavors, bright acidity, and impeccably balanced French oak, Migration is dedicated to crafting wines from the finest cool-climate winegrowing regions. This dedication led us to Santa Barbara County's renowned Sta. Rita Hills AVA, where Peake Ranch has emerged as one of the Central Coast's most exciting vineyards. Grown on a steep, northwest-facing slope cooled by clockwork fog off the Pacific, the Wente Clone vines on our prized block of Peake Ranch yield a radiant Chardonnay that combines verve and tension with alluring citrus flavors, sophisticated hints of orange blossom, and sea spray minerality.

Vintage Notes
The 2023 growing season began with a long, wet winter and an early spring, leading to a late bud break throughout the Central Coast. While moderate spring weather ensured a near-ideal bloom, the vines ripened slowly as the mild temperatures continued into summer. In a typical year, we would begin our Central Coast harvest in early September, but in 2023, our first pick was on October 5th. Fortunately, October brought beautiful sunny days in the upper 70s, ensuring excellent ripeness and a perfect balance between acid and Brix without dehydration.

Winemaking Notes
This Chardonnay enchants with delicate aromas of white flower, mineral, and slate, interwoven with hints of stone fruit and Meyer lemon. The palate is balanced and vibrant, with subtle notes of sweet oak, bright acidity, and a refreshing, mineral-laden finish that lingers beautifully.

Winemaking
Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills
Vineyard: Peake Ranch Vineyard
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Aging: Aged 10 months in 100% French oak; 36% new, 64% neutral
Key Coopers: Cadus, Damy, Tremeaux, Leroi
Malolactic Fermentation: 100%
Residual Sugar: Dry
Alcohol: 14.20%
pH: 3.42
Acidity: 0.61 g/100 ml
[Information provided by The Duckhorn Portfolio]