Winemaker Notes
Honey-colored in the glass, Z. Alexander Brown Chardonnay exudes bright aromas of white peach, grilled pineapple and Meyer lemon with hints of toasted oak and baking spice. A rich, velvety mouthfeel is supported by core flavors of apricot, tangerine, vanilla and bees wax. These complex, layered flavors extend into the finish. This Chardonnay is well-balanced; full-bodied with an acidic undertone, making it a perfect pairing with a wide range of fare.
Pairs well with Roast chicken and caramelized or grilled vegetables, risotto, creamy soups or pastas.
Professional Ratings
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Tasting Panel
Dreamy scents of pineapple and banana cream pie exude from this aromatic Chardonnay. The flavors boast a fresh, clear vision: Vanilla-kissed lemon bars, cashews, kiwis, and MacIntosh apples set the stage. Bright and sun-kissed, this wine is defined by a pillow-light texture and a juicy finish.
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.
Perhaps the most highly regarded appellation within Monterey County, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA benefits from a combination of warm morning sunshine and brisk afternoon breezes, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and fully. The result is concentrated, flavorful wines that retain their natural acidity. Wineries here do not shy away from innovation, and place a high priority on sustainable viticultural practices.
The climatic conditions here are perfectly suited to the production of ripe, rich Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These Burgundian varieties dominate an overwhelming percentage of plantings, though growers have also found success with Syrah, Riesling and Pinot Gris.