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TASTING NOTES

The 2021 Chardonnay offers a sweet spiced apricot richness with an undertone of slate and tea. The flavors - yellow apple, flower blossom, lemon, and ripe melons - are delivered with a firm structure with a long almond-filled finish.

VINEYARD NOTES

Chardonnay on our Keuka vineyard was planted in 1962, 1968, 1974, and 2000 on various rootstocks (143A, 188-15, 3309). These are some of the oldest Chardonnay vines in the Finger Lakes originally planted by our founder. Vineyards on Keuka are shallow, shale-based soils which adds minerality, acidity, and elegance. 36% of the grapes come from Eric Volz Vineyard, just north across the road from Dr. Konstantin Frank’s plantings on Keuka Lake. The vineyard was planted in 1985 by Walter Volz, the winery’s first Vineyard Manager. This vineyard is managed by Eric Volz, current Vineyard Manager for the winery, who worked alongside his father Walter and grandfather, Dr. Konstantin Frank. Soils here are shallow with high natural acidity and high amounts of shale. The vines are planted on 3309 and 188-15 rootstocks.

WINEMAKER NOTES

“We began 2021 with a milder winter resulting in fewer buds damaged from the cold. This produced a larger grape crop which is allowing us to get back in stock on many of our wines. The growing season in 2021 was more typical for the region with cooler temperatures and adequate rainfall. The wines from this vintage will have crisp acidity balanced by delicate fruit flavors providing great structure. The Reds and Whites should age well as evidenced by our wine library going back to the 1962 vintage.” -Frederick Frank.

VINIFICATION

De-Stemmed. Direct Press. 55% Barrel Fermented. Regular Bätonnage.

VESSEL

54% French Barrels During The Ageing Process.

ÉLEVAGE

9 Months Aging in 54% French Oak.

ACCOLADES