Winemaker's Notes
Sourced from six special acres in the heart of the Grace Benoist Ranch, this estate Chardonnay showcases all that is alluring about Carneros. Beautifully bright and vibrant, full of balance and grace, Etude crafts this Chardonnay to highlight the expressive fruit and terroir, with only the lightest touch of oak. A bouquet of white floral blossom, citrus fruits, and brioche toast notes complements seamlessly interwoven flavors of white peach, Meyer lemon, Golden Delicious apple, and marzipan. Medium-bodied with a crisp minerality and creamy texture a Grace Benoist Ranch signature—this elegant wine shows a lovely freshness with mouthwatering acidity, finishing long and dry with a savory flintiness.
History
What began thirty years ago as a philosophical state of mind is now a state-of-the-art winemaking facility where the ancient art of winemaking is pursued with a singular passion.
Etude Wines is dedicated to the study of craft of winegrowing. In classical music, an etude is a composition with a technical focus that allows the musician to practice a particular technique. Similarly, Etude wines are the product of deliberate concentration on the instructive variables of the craft. The end game is not edification alone, but rather the wine itself as a source of enjoyment.
Working together in this oenological quest for perfection are current winemaker Jon Priest and Ast. Winemaker Rob Fischer. They transform the very finest Carneros and Napa Valley grapes into world-class wines sought out by the most discriminating wine lovers. In addition to its widely acclaimed Carneros Pinot Noir and legendary Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Etude has also developed a loyal following for Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Merlot and Pinots from the most sought after AVAs around the world.
