It seems like yesterday when I started growing wine grapes in 1968. As the California fine wine business evolved during the ensuing years, so did my knowledge and passion as a winegrower. My dream was to produce fruit from which great wine could be made. My journey has taken me from Lodi, to the Napa Valley, Knight`s Valley, and Dry Creek. Eventually I found the perfect vineyard, near the village of Forestville in Sonoma's famed Russian River Valley.

From the first time I visited this small Chardonnay vineyard, I noticed the presence of a distinctive aroma. The air was sweet with a subtle blend of lemon zest and honeysuckle. I named it Walker Station in memory of the small town in Kentucky where my family is from. In 1997 I began to sell the fruit to winemaker Paul Hobbs who made a Chardonnay under his own label with the vineyard designation of Walker Station. With each successive vintage I found the vineyard`s unique aroma captured in the bottle.

In 2000 I asked Paul to work with me to create my own label , "Walker Station Vineyards". We agreed to share the fruit equally, with Paul continuing to make his superb Paul Hobbs Walker Station Vineyard Chardonnay. Paul makes our new wine with the other half of the crop. Utilizing a natural approach to the winemaking, my goal is to capture the essence of the vineyard in the wine.

THE WINE

I am very pleased to offer the 7th vintage of Walker Station Chardonnay. The 2006 is a wine of remarkable elegance and balance. Upon pouring the wine into a glass, you are greeted by the characteristic mélange of lemon, citrus, honeysuckle blossom and delicate floral scents. In the mouth the flavors are rich and full with the nuance of minerals that seem to roll over your tongue. Once swallowed all this goodness lingers in your mouth and throat inviting another sip.

The 2006 Walker Station Chardonnay already displays much of its charm. However as the complex character of the wine begins to reveal itself over the next several years, you might wish to cellar some bottles for future enjoyment.

THE FUTURE

Since moving to this area, also known as the Green Valley, a sub-appellation of the Russian River Valley, I have become convinced that not only Chardonnay, but also Pinot Noir wines made from our grapes can produce some of the finest wines made anywhere. In 2001 I planted a new vineyard, the Leslie Ranch, named after my mother`s family. My 2nd Pinot Noir vintage, the 2006, is now available.

I hope you will enjoy the 2006 Walker Station Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and many pleasant evenings when family and friends are gathered together around the dinner table. Please write me whenever the wine or occasion inspires you.

All the best.
Harry Walker

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© 2007 Walker Station Vineyards
PO Box 69 | Forestville, California 95436
707.887.8750 | 707.887.0114 fax