The top Chardonnays from California have nicely morphed from buttery, oaky beverages to clean elegant displays of balanced fruit, acid and texture. This layered and well-structured wine shows mineral notes, combined with aromas of citrus, apple and a hint of tropical fruit. In the mouth it is supple with flavors of Meyer lemon and white peach. The texture is mouth filling, but with a silky touch. This wine could accompany a number of dishes, from a firm cheese to a shrimp risotto.
Alma Rosa, Sta. Rita Hills (Santa Barbara County, California) Chardonnay 2021
By Rebecca Murphy