Chateau Montelena Chardonnay, Napa Valley
Grape: Chardonnay (Lightly oaked)
Tasting Notes: Green apple, Pear, Melon, Minerals
Chateau Montelena’s history is one of the deepest and most storied in Napa Valley and California. It was founded just north of Calistoga by a senator and San Francisco entrepreneur in 1882 but the winery did not survive Prohibition. The next major era began in 1968, when Jim Barrett purchased the estate and set about upgrading processes necessary for farming and winemaking at the highest quality level. In 1976 Chateau Montelena put California at the forefront of the wine world. That year at the Judgement of Paris four white Burgundies were tasted against six California Chardonnays. When the scores were tallied the best of the best was Chateau Montelena’s 1973 Chardonnay.
Another winner for Chateau Montelena. This Chardonnay combines the best of the old world with California ripeness and texture. Chardonnay in this style is rare in California, since it forgoes malolactic buttery notes and excessive oak, focusing on the importance of vintage, vineyard, and pure varietal character. The wine has depth, texture, freshness, richness, smoothness, and energy with refreshing acidity. Green apple, pear, peach, melon, minerals, Meyer lemon, soft oak, chalk, and crème brûlée glide across the opulent palate. Perfect for pan-seared scallops or Thanksgiving turkey.