Chalone Vineyard Releases New Gavilan Wines

Chalone Vineyard announces the first commercial release in more than a decade of its popular Gavilan wine brand. The new Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, both from the superb 2012 vintage, are available at fine restaurants and wine shops around the country.

According to Winemaker Robert Cook, "Long-time fans of Chalone Vineyard will be excited to see the reincarnation of our Gavilan label. These new wines are sourced entirely from the Chalone AVA with all of the fruit for the 2012s coming from our Chalone Vineyard Estate. The cornerstone of the 2012s is our Vista block which was planted to Dijon and Pommard clones back in 1998, 1999 and 2000. It produces wines that are forward, accessible and delicious."

The brand takes its name from its location in the Gavilan Mountains, which run along the eastern border of Monterey County. The range contains several peaks over 3,000 feet and is home to Pinnacles National Park. Chalone Vineyard is one of the most remarkable winery properties in not just Monterey County, but all of California. The land was first planted in 1919 and production under the Chalone Vineyard label began in 1960.

Regarding the 2012s, Robert said, "Both the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay were aged in 20 percent new French and Hungarian oak barrels to preserve the fresh aromatics, varietal accuracy, regional character and vibrant fruit flavors. Like all wines from the Chalone AVA, they possess great balance and minerality. They are intended for early consumption."

Suggested retail price is $24 for the Pinot Noir and $20 for the Chardonnay.