Santa Cruz Mountains
With a commitment to improving the quality of the Reserve Chardonnay, Regan Vineyards is replanting a four acre section of Chardonnay in the estate vineyard. Twenty three years ago, the first planting of Regan took place which involved the Mt Eden clone Chardonnay. These vines were chosen because of the tradition of yielding uniquely rich wines. In fact, this clone of Chardonnay, which originates from Corton-Charlemagne in Burgundy, France is known for producing some of the most sought after Chardonnays in the world. For nearly 20 years this clone has been the backbone of the Bargetto reserve Chardonnay
At the time of the first planting at Regan, this clone came with “leaf roll” virus. In the early years the vines performed well. However, over the years, the vines really struggled to produce sugar and ripen the fruit. The vines planted today in Regan are virus free, and should better ripen the grapes and thereby yield more flavorful Bargetto Reserve Chardonnay wines. (Right: Jesus Figueroa, Regan Vineyards foreman, inspects newly planted reserve Chardonnay vines)
The planting is staggered, so there will always be some fruit available. The first third of the section was replanted in 2014, and the second third is being planted at this time. The final third will be planted in 2017. Click here for more info on Regan. While we replant vineyard, enjoy our 2012 Regan Reserve Chardonnay.
By John Bargetto (Director of Winemaking)