Kistler Vineyards

Kistler 2005 Chardonnay

Kistler Vineyards is a privately owned and operated winery located in the Sonoma County, California, specializing in the production of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines. Founded in 1978 by Steve Kistler and Mark Bixler, Kistler Vineyards has established itself as one of the leading producers of Burgundian-styled wines in California. The winery is renowned for its small-lot fermentation process and meticulous vineyard management practices, which contribute to the high quality and distinctiveness of its wines.

History

Kistler Vineyards was established in 1978 when Steve Kistler, driven by a passion for winemaking, partnered with Mark Bixler, a chemist. The founders shared a common goal: to produce world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in California that would rival the esteemed wines of Burgundy, France. They focused on selecting suitable vineyard sites characterized by unique terroir and microclimates conducive to growing these varietals. Over the years, Kistler Vineyards has expanded its vineyard holdings across Sonoma County, including prestigious locations such as the Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, and Carneros.

Vineyards and Winemaking

Kistler Vineyards meticulously manages over a dozen distinct vineyard sites, each chosen for its specific soil composition and microclimate. The winery practices sustainable agriculture, ensuring that viticulture is in harmony with the environment. The vineyards are planted primarily with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir clones selected for their quality and compatibility with the local terroir.

The winemaking process at Kistler Vineyards is characterized by traditional Burgundian techniques, such as the use of small French oak barrels for aging. The wines undergo natural fermentation, and the Chardonnays are barrel-fermented, employing indigenous yeasts. This approach, combined with minimal intervention and meticulous attention to detail, allows the unique characteristics of each vineyard site to be expressed in the wines.

Wine Portfolio

Kistler Vineyards' portfolio predominantly features single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines. Each wine is a reflection of its vineyard's terroir, showcasing the nuanced differences between the various sites. The Chardonnays are known for their complexity, elegance, and aging potential, often drawing comparisons to the finest white wines of Burgundy. The Pinot Noirs are appreciated for their depth, structure, and expressive fruit character.

Reception and Legacy

Over the years, Kistler Vineyards has earned acclaim from wine critics and enthusiasts alike for its consistent quality and dedication to expressing the terroir of Sonoma County. The winery's commitment to producing limited quantities of high-quality wines has helped to elevate the reputation of California Chardonnay and Pinot Noir on the world stage.

Visiting Kistler Vineyards

Kistler Vineyards is not open to the public for tastings or tours, maintaining a focus on wine production and quality. However, their wines are available for purchase directly through the winery's mailing list and select retailers.