2018 Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay
We use a different strain of malolactic bacteria for this wine (rather than for the Reserve version), creating all of the texture & richness without the buttery characteristics. It was aged on the lees with light stirring for 6 months, & then another 3 months off the lees, in used-French oak barrels the whole time, followed by minimal fining & filtration.
Aromas of cream & citrus along with the silky texture of this wine bring to mind a lemon tart. Without the oak & butter notes of our Reserve Chardonnay, the focus is on yellow apple flesh, ripe nectarine skin, & a very lightly spicy finish.
Our favorite pairing for this is chicken (or veggie!) pot pie; the wine is rich enough to handle the crust & light-creamy filling without overpowering any ingredients. If pot pie isn't your thing, a simple rotisserie chicken compliments the bright, lightly toasted fruit notes beautifully. We recommend serving cool but not cold for best expression of flavor. If you don't have a wine cooler, take it out of the fridge about 20 mtinutes before serving.
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Varietal | Chardonnay |
| Appellation | CA - Santa Cruz County - Santa Cruz Mountains |
| Alcohol | 14.90% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Country of Origin | UNITED STATES |
| State of Origin | California |
| Sparkling Wine | No |
