Sonoma County Chardonnay 2018
Trade Tools
America / Sonoma County
Estate-grown Chardonnay grapes from Sonoma Valley are blended with carefully selected fruit from Carneros, Alexander Valley and Russian River Valley to create a balanced and enjoyable wine. Grapes from each vineyard are handpicked in the cool of night to preserve delicate aromas, flavors and bracing acidity, and then fermented separately in either barrel or stainless steel. Barrels are stirred two or three times a week to enhance the wine’s mouthfeel and toasty, complex characters. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation to convert tart malic acid to soft lactic acid and then is aged before blending.
93 Points
Sunset International Wine Competition
2018 vintage
88 Points
2018 vintage
Harvest Note
A fairly mild spring and summer with few heat spikes allowed the 2018 harvest to begin right after Labor day, later than previous years. The consistent growing season and cooler temperatures allowed for slow ripening and deep flavor development resulting in exceptional quality fruit with remarkable balance and brightness.
Tasting Note
This is a refreshing, medium-bodied Chardonnay with flavors and aromas of green apple, juicy pear and melon with a background note of marzipan. Bright and crisp, the wine is nicely balanced with a touch of minerality on the smooth and silky finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Sonoma County
ABV: 14.1%
AGING: 6 months in 100% French Oak
Unique Selling Points
- A classic, buttery California Chardonnay
- Fruit from: Sonoma Valley, Carneros, Alexander Valley and Russian River Valley
- Grapes handpicked in the cool of night
- A versatile pairing with chicken, crab or cream-sauce dishes
“With its perfect balance and seamless structure, this Chardonnay is a classic expression of Sonoma County.”
Katie Madigan, Winemaker
About the Grape
Chardonnay
Though it has a distinctive profile, Chardonnay reflects other factors such as soil composition and vinification technique. Chardonnay is a reliable, hardy and prolific vine whose only real vulnerabilities are frost and uneven development of fruit.
