Chardonnay is the world’s most popular high-quality white wine grape. This is not only because of the ease with which it is grown, but also because of its incredible versatility. Different growing soils and the predilections of the winemaker can produce a diverse spectrum of Chardonnay wines with varying, almost contradictory characteristics. These can range from the steely, bone-dry, highly acidic wines of the Chablis region of France to the buttery, almost sweet vintages produced in the U.S., Australia, and other New World wineries. And the two California vintages noted below, I believe, clearly illustrate the diversity of styles that can exist even within the same state.
The 2009 Deep Sea is a crisp, clean Chardonnay from California’s Central Coast region. Dry and acidic, this is a wine that will obviously not appeal to lovers of sweet, buttery Chards. But what the wine lacks in richness it make up for in elegance. Deep Sea wines are made from grapes grown in California’s moderate coastal climates. The vineyards along the coast are cooled by fog and ocean breezes; and the grapes grown there are distinctly different from those grown in warmer inland areas. The 2009 Deep Sea, like other wines produced in this region, is light and well balanced. Its refreshing citrus minerality is a most suitable libationary companion for a warm summer’s evening.
The 2010 Paraiso Chardonnay hails from the Monterey distinct, specifically the Santa Lucia Highlands. This wine is, without doubt, the quintessential California Chardonnay… The nose is rife with tropical fruit, there’s a decidedly creamy texture on the palate, and pleasant overtones of toasty oak and vanilla. Yet the wine is perfectly balanced with a bracing acidity and hefty 14.3% alcohol. A full 85% of this wine went through malolactic (secondary) fermentation, which accounts for the rich, creamy mouth-feel. This portion was fermented in 20% new and 80% one-to-three year-old French oak barrels. The other 15% of the wine was fermented in stainless steel, which adds a crisp, bright acidity. This famed “Monterey Balance” gives this elegant wine numerous food-pairing possibilities.
The 2009 Deep Sea Chardonnay and the 2010 Paraiso Chardonnay normally retail in the low twenties, give or take. But I’ve seen them on sale for as low as $12.99 and $14.99, respectively. Shop around and get ‘em while they’re hot!
Cheers!
TAD
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