Winemaker Notes
This well-balanced wine offers aromas of granny smith apple and pear that are complemented by notes of vanilla and toasted oak. The grapes were gently pressed, fermented and aged on French and Hungarian oak for 5 months, giving the wine a creamy texture and balanced acidity.
Kenwood Yulupa Chardonnay is made in a pleasant, fruity style and pairs nicely with a wide range of foods. The crisp flavors pair well with creamy pasta dishes, grilled fish and roasted poultry
California’s most praised white wine, Chardonnay is also the state’s most planted white grape variety. Diverse terrain and microclimates allow for an incredible range of wine styles.
Chardonnay planted in the cooler, coastal zones takes on bright characteristics like lemon zest, key lime, green apple and wet flint. For this style, look to the chilly Sonoma Coast, Carneros, Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Lucia Highlands and Edna Valley.
The inland zones of California’s coast, such as the Russian River, Sonoma, Napa and Livermore Valleys maintain a more Goldilocks-esque climate where both styles go. Early picking retains acidity and creates a leaner style but leaving the grapes to hang creates an approachable Chardonnay, balancing richness and finesse.
Chardonnay also plays a major part in the sparkling wine production of the Anderson Valley and Carneros.