# Trout Gulch Vineyard Chardonnay (2021)

- **Producer:** Kutch Wines
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, grapefruit, lemon, cream, butter

## About this wine

The Kutch Trout Gulch Vineyard Chardonnay 2021 is a white wine from the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA in California, produced by Kutch Wines. The grapes are 100% Chardonnay, grown in the Trout Gulch Vineyard, which was established in 1971. The producer, Kutch Wines, is led by Jamie Kutch, who emphasizes a natural winemaking approach with minimal intervention to express the vineyard's terroir. The 2021 growing season in California was generally favorable, contributing to the wine's development. This wine is distinguished by its focus on minerality and a specific expression of its origin.

## Interesting facts

- Trout Gulch Vineyard was planted in 1971, making these vines mature and deeply rooted.
- Winemaker Jamie Kutch left a career in finance to pursue his passion for wine.
- Indigenous yeasts are used for fermentation, allowing for a natural expression of the vineyard.
- Hand and feet punch-downs were utilized during fermentation.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and brisk acidity can cut through richer dishes, while its minerality and subtle citrus notes complement seafood and earthy flavors. The natural winemaking approach allows the wine to harmonize with dishes that highlight fresh ingredients.

## Wine making process

The Kutch Trout Gulch Vineyard Chardonnay 2021 is produced using 100% Chardonnay grapes. The grapes are hand-harvested. Fermentation takes place in small open-top containers with indigenous yeasts, utilizing hand and feet punch-downs. Following fermentation, the wine is aged sur lie in French oak. Kutch Wines employs natural and minimalist farming practices. The 2021 growing season in California was described as favorable.