Winemaker Notes
These Chardonnay grapes were hand harvested at night to preserve fruit character. Due to the geological diversity of our estate, we harvest blocks based upon optimum ripeness and flavor maturity. The grapes were whole cluster pressed, and the juice was fermented in barrels and aged sur lie, with the lees stirred every two weeks for 5-6 months. 100% of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged in French oak barrels (31% new) for 8 months.
Tasting Notes
The 2006 Carneros Chardonnay shows aromas of fresh flowers and tropical mango and pineapple fruit against a creamy, toasty background. In the mouth it shows intense apple, vibrant citrus, honeydew and pear notes through the creamy, subtly toasty finish. It's a classic example of Carneros Chardonnay.
"Buena Vista comes through again with a stellar Chardonnay for everyday drinking. From its opening aromas of ripe apples, grain and creamy oak to its medium-full weight and supple feel all the way to its attractively fruity and smooth finish, this wine simply invites itself to the table with foods like roasted chicken. And, its price makes it a wine to keep at the top of your shopping list." 89 Points
Connoisseur's Guide to California Wine
February 2009
Professional Ratings
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.
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.