Artesa Carneros Chardonnay 2009 Front Label
Artesa Carneros Chardonnay 2009 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

The Chardonnay vineyards for this blend span the entire cool climate Carneros appellation, where temperatures are moderated by persistent morning fog, cool afternoon breezes and the adjoining San Pablo Bay. During growing season the sun burns off fog by late morning and the temperatures rise quickly. At the same time, hot air rising above the Central Valley is replaced by cool air funneling through the Petaluma Wind Gap off the Pacific Ocean. The combination of sunshine and cool temperatures results in gradual maturation of the grapes, allowing them to develop great natural acidity and deep fruit flavor.

A brilliant straw yellow, this Chardonnay opens with heady aromas of lime, apple, apricot and pineapple, spiked with appealing hints of honeysuckle, oregano and tarragon. Its lively entry – from the wine's natural acidity -- is accompanied by layers of citrus and tropical fruit flavors. An underlying mineral component, along with the subtle influence of French oak, adds intrigue. This is a classic Carneros Chardonnay, finishing crisply and beckoning for another taste.

Professional Ratings

  • 91
    Artesa's dual fermentation approach, in which oak-barrel and stainless-steel-tank fermentation are used, has resulted in this startlingly appealing Chardonnay. Braced with Carneros acidity, it shows mineral-infused orange, lemon and mango flavors, with a smooht coating of toasty oak.
Image for Chardonnay content section
View all products

One of the most popular and versatile white wine grapes, Chardonnay offers a wide range of flavors and styles depending on where it is grown and how it is made. While it tends to flourish in most environments, Chardonnay from its Burgundian homeland produces some of the most remarkable and longest lived examples. California produces both oaky, buttery styles and leaner, European-inspired wines. Somm Secret—The Burgundian subregion of Chablis, while typically using older oak barrels, produces a bright style similar to the unoaked style. Anyone who doesn't like oaky Chardonnay would likely enjoy Chablis.

Image for Carneros California content section

Carneros

California

View all products

Known for elegant wines that combine power and finesse, Carneros is set in the rolling hills that straddle the southernmost parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties. The cooling winds from the abutting San Pablo Bay, combined with lots of midday California sunshine, create an ideal environment for producing wines with a perfect balance of crisp acidity and well-ripened fruit.

This cooler pocket of California lends itself to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Carneros is an important source of sparkling wines made in the style of Champagne as well.

ULL929613_2009 Item# 107776