Chalone Monterey Chardonnay 2008 – Wine Review
I had the chance to enjoy this Chardonnay over the weekend with one of the other owners of Corx Wine Bags. I had not had the chance to try this wine before, but upon pulling it out Kevin told me that we would not be disappointed. Kevin was spot on with this wine being properly balanced between the flavors of pear, apple and oak, as well as a butteriness that complements the bright crispness of this wonderful chardonnay.
Cheers!
- Brandon
Chalone Vineyard Monterey County Chardonnay 2008 Overview
Wine
In our 2008 Chardonnay, bright, fruit-focused flavors keep cadence with sweet essence of oak. Baked pear, Braeburn apple and sweet tangerine are accented by wafts of floral and nutmeg. Across the palate, the flavors are joined by juicy stone fruit and guava, developing creaminess through the middle. Well-balanced, the fruit remains bright and crisp, complemented by just enough oak to lend structure and complexity. This wine’s versatility makes it pleasant for sipping as well as a perfect complement to sautéed scallops or stuffed chicken breast.
Vineyard
Chalone Vineyard was one of the first wineries to recognize the amazing potential of Chardonnay from Monterey County. With moderate winters and a maritime-influenced climate, Monterey has one of the coolest, most consistent growing seasons in the state, ideal for this thin-skinned varietal. Our grapes come from the northern Salinas Valley, in the Arroyo Seco American Viticultural Area, and other cool, well-drained sites auspiciously influenced by the wind and fog that carry the cool Pacific air down the valley. Here, budbreak is generally early and the growing season long, allowing the grapes to hang on the vine and develop slowly for ripe, flavorful Chardonnay with a nice core of acidity.
Winemaking
The unique climate and terroir of Monterey guides the profile of this Chardonnay. From vine to bottle, our winemaking decisions were chosen with this abiding ideal. For a hint of complexity, structure and gentle spice influence, we aged 60 percent of the wine in a combination of French, American and European oak for six months.
Vintage
