California s newest crop of Chardonnay hits store shelves
Posted1/13/2021 6:00 AM
Dear wine drinkers, I hope you are enjoying California s new crop of Chardonnay as much as I am.
The 2018 vintage currently on our retail shelves was a winemaker s dream, with cool spring, moderate summer and warm autumn extending into October two weeks longer than previous years, fully maturing grapes. In addition, winegrowers are working with their plant and planet, pushing the Go West axiom, with vineyards planted ever-closer to the cold ocean, to balance juicy ripeness with bright acidity.
While many producers employ new barrels, the wines below are no oaky monsters of yore, but richly satisfying drinks, with plush fruit, exotic spice accents, satin texture and luscious finish.