A History Lesson & Introducing our 2011 Chardonnay
Did you know that there are more chardonnay vines in the U.S. than all red wine vines combined? California chardonnay is now planted on nearly 100,000 acres & accounts for more than 53 million cases of wine shipped to U.S. consumers each year, according to the latest figures from CA’s Wine Institute. Surprised? Even more, chardonnay did not come onto the national stage until 1976 when the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay won first prize in a blind tasting of American and French wines at the legendary Judgment of Paris. Wineries almost overnight began to replace their acres with chardonnay and in time California vineyards began to develop a lush, ripe grape that would become signature to the area…until now.
“Until recently, chardonnay in this state was all made in one style, the California syle,” admits Raj Parr, co-founder of Sandhi Winery in Santa Barbara.
Some grapes more than others then to find themselves with a certain reputation taken as fact whether or not it is truly the case. This has been true of California Chardonnay. Buttery, plump and fat are some of the adjectives that the California Chardonnay has found itself associated with, however a trend towards a leaner grape has begun to gain attention and chardonnays across the stare are delivering a clear and unmistaken expression of place.
Chardonnay can be seen as the ultimate terroir grape. Chanin WIne Company winemaker Gavin Chanin says “it shows the site’s personality really well.”
With a relatively neutral canvas due to the grape being a non-aromatic variety, winemakers are able to truly leave their own mark on the grape, this is what we have looked to do with our 2011 Chardonnay. WIth tropical and mango flavors, that add an extra fruit taste to its hazelnut and creamy finish, our chardonnay seamlessly pleases the palate. WIth surprising hints of honeysuckle, lime and apricot this white will leave you reaching for more. We hope you enjoy our 2011 Chardonnay!
