Winemaker Notes
Structured and precise, this Chardonnay delivers a chalky, mineral-driven profile with saline nuances and a vibrant backbone of acidity, beautifully balanced by a textured, generous mid-palate. Aromas of linden blossom, sea breeze, and freshly picked citrus lead seamlessly into flavors of salted lemon, crushed stones, and delicate white flowers, showcasing a refined, understated elegance.
Professional Ratings
-
Wine Enthusiast
Rich in fruit flavor, this seamless wine matches indulgent poached pear and baked apple flavors with lightly spiced oak elements of vanilla, nutmeg and toast. While creamy in texture, it is balanced by a snap of crisp apple acidity.
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.
A small and picturesque valley separating Napa Valley on its south border and Alexander Valley to its north, Knights Valley excels in similar varieties as the two aforementioned appellations, namely red Bordeaux varieties and blends, as well as Sauvignon blanc. Originally established by Beringer Vineyards, today several outstanding producers claim acreage here. The circadian cooling effects of the nearby Pacific Ocean create a nighttime respite for vineyards during the hot growing season.