Raymond Vineyards, founded in 1974, is one of the Napa Valley’s pioneers and great estates. Arriving to Napa in 1933, the Raymond family became deeply connected to the valley’s winemaking origins. In 1970, they established a 90-acre estate in Rutherford that now comprises 300 acres in Rutherford, St. Helena, and Jameson Canyon. Five generations of the Raymond family created a Napa icon, with an enduring reputation for elegant wines with a beautiful balance of finesse, power, and complexity. Today, inspired by the vision of Proprietor Jean-Charles Boisset, Raymond is a dynamic destination dedicated to inspiring its guests’ passion for fine wine in an environment of exploration, creativity, and elegant whimsicality, where each in a series of diverse experiences progresses visitors into another world of discovery and exceptional wines. Further, Raymond’s Rutherford and St. Helena estate vineyards are certified organic and Biodynamic, and 100% of the winery’s power comes from renewable solar energy.

Vintage 2021

2021 was a smooth harvest season. June started out warm, followed by a cool and foggy July and August that slowed ripening and caused nice retention of acidity. Even ripening, with no extreme heat events, made for ideal growing conditions. Sparse winter rains resulted in an early budbreak, evenly developed clusters, and smaller berries packed full of flavor. Overall, the fruit was exceptional, making it another amazing year for quality.

Winemaking

The grapes for this Chardonnay were harvested between September 8 and October 6 from four vineyards located in south Napa and select eastern slopes of the Carneros regions. The wine was 100% barrel fermented in small, French oak barrels, 18% new. Using no malolactic fermentation, the wine was sur lie aged for 10 months before being bottled.

Tasting notes

Aromas of white peach and lemon citrus with subtle scents of Asian Pear spring from the glass. This Chardonnay has a nice weight on the palate, with flavors of Gravenstein apple, stone fruit, and nuances of vanilla and Meyer lemon. Juicy with bright acidity, this wine is balanced with a ingering finish.