Harvested by night to keep the grapes fresh, each vineyard lot is gently pressed and fermented separately at low temperatures to retain finesse and purity. Some selected lots are fermented and aged in French oak barrels to bring richness and complexity. A small proportion of barrels goes through malolactic fermentation to bring creaminess. After 6 months of 'sur lies' aging with battonage (for added creamy texture), each component is blended to create the Fortant de France signature Chardonnay style.