December 2024 Holiday Letter
December marks a season of quiet reflection and a deliberate, slower pace in the winery. With the bustling energy of harvest behind us, this is a time to focus on nurturing our wines as they transition through critical phases of development.
Our red wines are aging gracefully in French oak barrels. The oak enhances the depth and complexity of the wine, contributing notes of vanilla, spice, and toast that harmonize with the vibrant fruit character from the vineyard. Regular tasting and evaluation guide decisions on aging time and integration, helping us craft wines that are both expressive and balanced.
For our Chardonnay, we employ a unique process to capture its rich, layered personality. Stainless steel barrels, paired with oak staves, provide the perfect environment for controlled aging. To enhance mouthfeel and complexity, we periodically stir the wine on its lees—a process called bâtonnage. This technique introduces creamy, nutty flavors and a silky texture, resulting in a Chardonnay that is both vibrant and sophisticated.
December’s slower rhythm offers an opportunity to reflect on the artistry behind each bottle while preparing for the excitement of sharing these wines with you in the coming year.
Happy Holidays from
Russ, Joan, Katy and Willy
December Selections
2022 Tondre Pinot Noir by Russ Jones-Medium ruby and deep purple hue with full aromas of cassis and sweet spice with a hint of fresh earth. The palate is rich, nearly full-bodied, with ripe black fruit, subtle spice and vanilla. Toasted oak, leather, and dark cherry is sustained on the midpalate. The finish is complex with balanced acidity and mouth-filling tannins that balance the generous fruit intensity of this wine nicely.
2022 Tondre oaked Chardonnay by Katy Carroll Jones-Produced in a more traditional french fashion, this oaked Chardonnay balances ML fermentation with oak aging to create a crisp and smooth white wine with aromas of honeydew, light toast and creme fraiche. On the palate, our Chardonnay displays a harmonious blend of asian pair, orange blossom and hints of starfruit, finishing with a hint of pie crust.
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon by Russ Jones-Best to enjoy on a cold winter's night - it will warm your soul. Subtle aromas of new leather, ripe bell pepper and hints of black pepper. Smooth like black velvet with a touch of aprium, blackberry, and violet. Finishes strong but clean with black current, cassis, and subtle licorice.