2016 JCB No. 81 Chardonnay

JCB Collection is a new winemaking enterprise from Jean-Charles Boisset, a native of Vougeot, Burgundy, now making wine in Northern California. His parents founded Château du Clos Vougeot in Burgundy in 1961, launching themselves into what has become a multi-generational business of winemaking in Burgundy, the South of France, Italy, Napa Valley and the Russian River Valley. In 2003 the family, now headed by Jean-Charles, acquired DeLoach Vineyards in the Russian River Valley, and later acquired also Raymond Vineyards and Buena Vista Winery. More recently Boisset started the JCB Collection of wines to combine the tradition of French winemaking with the heritage of historic terroirs around the world. The collection includes a full portfolio of wines from Cabernet blends to whites, sparkling wines and dessert wines. JCB wines are special cuveés made at the family’s wineries in California and elsewhere. Robert M. Parker Jr. has noted that the JCB wines “demonstrate the visionary as well as creative genius of Jean-Charles Boisset. They represent both his traditional upbringing in Burgundy and his passion and belief in the quality of Northern California fruit.” All JCB wines are made in limited quantities.

Sonoma Coast AVA runs from San Pablo Bay in the south to Mendocino County in the north. It includes 7,000 vineyard acres and earned AVA status in 1987. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean means it gets double the rainfall of nearby inland appellations and the ocean gives the appellation a relatively cool climate. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir can thrive in these conditions, and there are numerous producers making critically acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.