After working at Saintsbury Winery in Carneros and Joseph Phelps Freestone vineyards, Theresa Heredia became winemaker at Gary Farrell in 2012. Heredia had been fascinated with Burgundy since her early doctorate training in chemistry. She became well acquainted with the cool ocean influences within the Russian River Valley AVA and how they affect the ripeness and maturity of flavors in wines.

Martaella Vineyard is situated in the heart of Russian River Valley in an area known as Laguna de Santa Rosa. The 58-acre property was originally planted in 2005 and then expanded in 2008. The 42 acres of vineyards are planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The climate is influenced by the fog from the Pacific Ocean, which cools the region down by as much as 40 degrees.

This Chardonnay initially reveals aromas of butterscotch and apricot. It is deceiving because within the core are undertones of lemon tart, stone fruits, liquid minerality and savory spices. This wine is somewhat shy at this early point of evolution and is reminiscent of a nicely crafted Chablis from France.

By W Peter Hoyne