Gallo of Sonoma Chardonnay 2004

Our 2004 Sonoma Reserve Chardonnay marries the rich full flavors of melon and citrus fruits with a hint of vanilla. The oak aging imparts a luscious mouthfeel with toasty, buttery notes followed by a crisp, clean finish. A delicious complement to almost any meal including grilled chicken, fresh salmon, or lighter pasta dishes.

To ensure that the grapes are gently squeezed and allow the natural fruit character to shine through, a gravity fed, whole cluster press is used for 100% of our Sonoma Reserve Chardonnay. This also eliminates the bitterness that typically results from crusher-destemmers. The juice was primarily barrel fermented, and underwent partial malolactic fermentation, lending it a buttery flavor that complements its crisp, clean finish. After fermentation, 73% of the wine was aged in French, European, and American oak barrels for an average of six months to impart subtle hints of oak flavor.