Chalk Hill Sonoma Coast Chardonnay (750ml)
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Wine Type
White Wine
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Size
750ml
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Vintage
2022
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Country
USA
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Region
California
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Sub-Region
Sonoma
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Grape
Chardonnay
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Farming Method
ConventionalMost products with this label come from producers who do their best to avoid any intervention at all but it’s possible that some of the aforementioned preventative measures and additions are deemed necessary. Learn More
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ABV
14.5%
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Food Pairing
BrieChickenSeafood
Chalk Hill was established in 1972. It is a spectacular 1,300-acre property featuring 300 acres of vineyards, wilderness areas, winery, hospitality center, organic culinary garden, residence, and equestrian pavilion. The winery’s vineyards are thoughtfully woven through the native foliage and contoured to fit the intricate terrain. More than two-thirds of the Chalk Hill Estate remains uncultivated. Meticulous attention to detail in the vineyards and the cellar, decades of clonal research, sustainable viticulture practices and a minimalist approach to winemaking all combine to produce these signature wines of character and richness that reflect this special place.
Chalk Hill is also the AVA (appellation) in which the winery is located. It is one of 13 AVAs in Sonoma County. Unique biospheres distinguish Chalk Hill from the neighboring appellations – the cooler Russian River Valley to the west and the warmer Alexander Valley to the northeast. Elevations in Chalk Hill are higher; soil fertility is lower. In amazing proximity, the soils range from shallow to deep, from thin to thick, from gravel and rock to heavy clay. An old river bed caps one hill; an unusual serpentine vein ranges through another and, under the topsoil, is a distinctive layer of chalk-colored volcanic ash which inspired the name of Chalk Hill, the appellation, and the estate.
Tasting Notes
Buttery brioche, pear, vanilla bean and golden apple on the nose. The palate is full, round, textural with expressive acidity that keeps everything fresh and a bright. The textural richness and harmonious acidity make this an ideal white wine to elevate a number of dishes; enjoy this Chardonnay with shellfish like lobster and scallops dipped in butter, pastas with seafood, lemon or cream sauces or soft bloomy rind cheeses.
Method
Chalk Hill’s location, between the cool Russian River appellation, and the warm Alexander Valley, places it in the perfect location to take advantage of the benefits afforded both. The diversity of the Chalk Hill topography creates a broad spectrum of different sites across which can be planted both red and white varieties. The lower, cooler sites are perfect for Chardonnay.
This Chardonnay is 100% barrel fermented, using a combination of new and used French oak. Chalk Hill’s various strains of indigenous yeasts vie for supremacy in the fermenting process providing layers of texture and nuance. Malolactic fermentation and a prescribed regimen of bâtonnage, the periodic stirring of the lees in the barrel, serves to add texture and mouthfeel.
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