From the fairly freshly minted Petaluma Gap AVA, this second in the Grower Series gives another nice option in Chardonnay, a little more refined than the El Novillero, for when you want a little less flash and a little more depth. Lemon creme, pear, apple, soft spice and an herbal hint ride nicely together through a blossoming finish that brings in a stony mineral note. Bright acidity keeps flavors pumping persistently, and push me toward a mild cheese pairing to bring all the subtlety to bear.
Chappellet, Petaluma Gap (Sonoma County, California) Chardonnay 2017
By Rich Cook