Chardonnay is America's number one selling white wine varietal. The Chardonnay grape is a relatively “low-maintenance” vine that adapts well to a variety of climates, resulting in fairly high yields worldwide. These high yields translate into millions of bottles of Chardonnay wines. As a result, you can buy a good bottle of Chardonnay for under $15.
Chardonnays boast an impressive range of flavors from the expected buttered, oak overtones to the fresh, fruit flavors of apple, pear, tropical, citrus and melon, leaving a lasting palate impression.
Chardonnay will pair well with poultry dishes, pork, seafood or recipes that have a heavy cream or butter base. Also consider pairing unoaked Chardonnay with guacamole, garlic, salads, grilled shrimp or even curry dishes.
Starmont Chardonnay, 2008
winemaker's notes:
The fruit for our Starmont Chardonnay is grown in our favorite cooler areas of the Napa Valley, including Oak Knoll District and Carneros, where the maritime influence keeps the focus on crisp, vibrant fruit. The fruit was carefully sorted and whole cluster pressed to preserve freshness. The light oak treatment gives a round mouth feel and improved complexity, while highlighting the fruit driven focus of the wine.
Aromas of Graventstein Apple, Bosc Pear, mandarin orange, peach, apple tart with roasted hazelnut, vanilla bean and spice (nutmeg and clove). The wine has a soft entry leading to a round fleshy mid-palate and is filled with layers of fruit and spice. Toasty notes are accentuated on the long finish.
We recommend pairing with a butterflied, herb roasted chicken.
Francis Coppola Chardonnay, 2008
winemaker's notes:
Buttercup yellow in color. Cantaloupe, pear and cinnamon aromas. Apple, passion fruit and crème brulée on the palate. This Chardonnay displays rich, flamboyant flavors and a soft, creamy finish.
Bogle Vineyards Chardonnay, 2009
winemaker's notes:
Classic Clarksburg personality shines through in the green apple and pear notes, while a bit more tropical pineapple breezes by. The rich mouthfeel created by aging on the lees abounds mid-palate, while the finish is wrapped in creamy textures and tones from the malolactic fermentation. Spicy American oak notes of butterscotch and vanilla are the perfect balance to the freshness and acidity of the multifaceted wine. Enjoy this wine with just about everything