The Arroyo Seco AVA in Monterey County gets its name from the Arroyo Seco River, which carved much of the region’s terrain. It offers a cool climate, which is ideal for growing Chardonnay. Grapes from their Ste. Nicolaus Vineyard were fermented in small in barrels, a portion of which underwent malolactic fermentation. The wine spent 11 months on the lees in French oak barrels, 30% new. The result is an elegant and supple wine with aromas and flavors of ripe apple, pear, and Meyer lemon layered with vanilla and floral notes, perfect for roast chicken or pasta carbonara.
Hahn, Arroyo Seco (Monterey County, California) Chardonnay 2020
By Rebecca Murphy