Paradise Springs Winery Chardonnay 2022

Alcohol: 14.2%

Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay

Localization: Virginia, USA

Tasting Notes: Barrel fermenting the Chardonnay allows the small amount of new oak to integrate seamlessly into the wine. This contributes freshness and subtle oak notes, along with yellow apple and ripe quince. The “batonnage” stirring of the lees as the wine ages adds a creaminess that balances out the bright acidity the wine contains as a result of not going through a full Malo-lactic fermentation.

The Domain: The name Paradise Springs comes directly from the history books of Clifton, Virginia. Its origin was that of mineral springs on the west side of town. Clifton was considered a resort destination by many in Washington. It is said that past Presidents and Generals visited the town for its healing waters. In 1904, water from Paradise Springs was sent off to be tested and was found pure enough for commercial bottling. So in 1910, a bottling plant was constructed and Paradise Springs bottled water. The clear colored bottles displayed simply the word "PARADISE" blown into the glass. The Herald even once reported that Paradise Springs was "on the boom". Nonetheless, the business eventually went under and became nothing more than a historical reference.

It is said that the founding of Clifton lay in the aspiration to make great wine. One night, while returning from the war, Harrison G. Otis passed through the town on the Orange and Alexandria railroad. While sticking his head out of the window to get some fresh air, he heard the squealing of hogs feeding on the profusion of wild grapes that grew in the area. So in 1868, he returned to the area and planted vineyards on the west side of town.  Like Thomas Jefferson, his attempts failed as there was not enough technology at the time to allow Virginia wines to succeed. Even though his venture did not go as planned, Harrison went on to purchase the Deveraux Railroad Station (Clifton Station), develop the post office, build the town's hotel, and become known as the founder of Clifton.