Let’s Revisit Chardonnay

There is just something special about a Chardonnay. I’ve written about it before, but I understand there are several people that are just not interested it in at all. If you are one of them, honestly, I’d encourage you to revisit the wine. You just never know what may happen. There are several countries making Chardonnay and doing it well. For example, I encourage you to try something other than from California, like an unoaked Chardonnay (aka White Burgundy) from France. Unoaked Chardonnays from France are generally crisp and fruity without sacrificing body as opposed to their oaked California counterparts which tend to be buttery, rich, and full-bodied.

Stoller Family Estate from Dundee Hills, Oregon did delicious job with their Reserve Chardonnay, 2014. It’s been a while since I’ve had a Chardonnay from Oregon and it only reminded me that I need to try more from that fantastic state! Barrel fermented and aged in French oak for eleven months, it delivers balanced but subtle notes of orange marmalade and lemon rind with hints of clove and vanilla. The palate comes through with slightly tart green apples, orange peel and hints of lemon/lime with a deliciously long finish. You can easily enjoy this now or cellar it for a few more years to get even more out of it.

By the way, to maximize your Chardonnay experiences serve it at around 55-58 degrees. Although depending on the region, often the general recommended serving temperature is 50-52 degrees, I find that the true character reveals itself at a slightly higher temperature. Most restaurants serve it too cold which mutes the flavors and could be a contributing factor as to why some don’t much care for it.

This particular bottle retails for $35 but Stoller has less expensive Chardonnays that are great for the value. So the next time you’re at your favorite wine retailer revisit Chardonnay, you just might be surprised!

Sláinte! TCW