Wine of the Week: Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée Cava

If you had asked me years ago what I thought of Freixenet, I probably would have smiled and pictured that familiar black bottle of Cava sitting on the liquor store shelf. It was inexpensive, reliable, and, let's be honest, one of those bottles many of us picked up when you were young and broke.

So when I received a bottle of Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée as part of my Certified Cava Educator course, I had to admit I was a little skeptical.

My first thought?

"Well...it has to be good if they included it in the certification program."

I tucked the bottle away until a weekend trip to Plymouth, Massachusetts, to visit my high school friend Sharon. Mother Nature had other plans for us that Saturday. Rain kept us indoors, so we decided to make the best of it by baking a blueberry galette and, of course, popping the cork.

A Different Side of Freixenet

This wasn't the Freixenet I remembered.

Elyssia is produced as Freixenet's premium expression of Cava, and the name itself sets the tone. Derived from the Latin word Elysium, Elyssia means "a state of absolute happiness" or "paradise." After tasting it, I'd say the name fits beautifully.

The wine is a blend of:

• Macabeo
• Parellada
• Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir

This combination gives the wine both traditional Cava character and a bit more richness and elegance than many people expect from the brand.

In the Glass

Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée pours with a lively, persistent stream of tiny bubbles and offers an inviting floral bouquet.

On the palate it was surprisingly elegant, featuring:

• Creamy mouthfeel
• Acacia blossom
• Bright citrus fruit
• A delicate hint of strawberry
• Fresh acidity that keeps everything balanced

The wine spends a minimum of 10 months aging on the lees, giving it that lovely creamy texture while still maintaining freshness and vibrant fruit.

Pairing It with a Rainy Afternoon

Our homemade blueberry galette made for a wonderful rainy-day project, and the Cava paired nicely with it.

That said, I couldn't help thinking the wine would have been even better alongside a peach galette or one featuring red fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or cherries. Those flavors would have echoed the wine's subtle strawberry note and allowed both the dessert and the wine to shine a little brighter.

Of course, sitting in the living room catching up with a lifelong friend may have been the best pairing of all.

Wine Facts

Wine: Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée Cava

Region: Penedès, Spain

Classification: Cava

Grapes:

• Macabeo
• Parellada
• Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir

Aging: Minimum 10 months on the lees

Tasting Notes:

• Acacia blossom
• Citrus fruit
• Hint of strawberry
• Creamy mouthfeel
• Fine persistent bubbles

Food Pairings:

• Peach galette
• Strawberry tart
• Triple cream cheeses
• Roast chicken
• Seafood paella
• Grilled shrimp
• Brunch favorites

Earth Day, Veramonte Winery, and the Power of Organic Grapes

Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, is dedicated to increasing awareness of our planet's environmental issues and promoting positive change. The event, first celebrated in 1970, has since become a global movement. Every year, people worldwide come together to participate in various activities, from planting trees and cleaning up litter to discussing climate change and advocating for sustainable living. One of the key areas where sustainable living can make a difference is in the production and consumption of our food and drink.

Earth Day is an important reminder that our actions directly impact the environment. Climate change, deforestation, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources are all problems that require our immediate attention. Earth Day provides a platform to raise awareness about these issues and motivate individuals, communities, and businesses to take action to pursue a greener, more sustainable future.

One area where we can make a difference is in our consumption habits, particularly in the food and drink industry. By supporting environmentally friendly and sustainable practices, we can help to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

Veramonte Winery in Chile is an excellent example of an organization promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Veramonte Winery is a pioneer in sustainable and environmentally friendly winemaking practices in the Casablanca and Colchagua Valley of Chile. With a deep understanding of the need to preserve the environment for future generations, Veramonte Winery has focused on organic farming practices to cultivate their grapes. These practices promote biodiversity, protect the environment, and produce healthier, more flavorful wines.

Veramonte Winery's commitment to organic farming means that their vineyards are free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Instead, they utilize natural pest control methods, such as cover crops, insect predators, and organic compost to maintain healthy vineyards. This commitment to organic farming extends throughout the winery's production process, from planting and cultivation to harvesting and winemaking.

By using organic grapes, Veramonte Winery is able to reduce the environmental impact of their wine production while also preserving the natural characteristics of their terroir. The result is a range of high-quality, environmentally friendly wines that reflect the unique qualities of the Casablanca and Colchagua Valley.

Celebrating Earth Day with Veramonte Winery

As Earth Day approaches, it is essential to recognize and support businesses like Veramonte Winery committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. By choosing wines made with organic grapes, we can celebrate Earth Day and contribute to the global effort to protect our planet. As we raise our glasses in a toast to Earth Day, remember that every small action, like choosing sustainable products, can make a significant difference in the world around us.

So this Earth Day, explore the diverse and flavorful world of organic wines from Veramonte Winery, and let's toast to a greener, more sustainable future! 

Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc 2022 Casablanca Valley $13.99 Sauvignon Blanc is harvested at night so it will maintain fresh and bright acidity. The 2022 vintage began great but took a while to ripen. It hung on the vines a bit longer than usual to reach its maximum aromatic potential and concentration of flavors we all know and love from this region. A beautiful spring and summer Sauvignon Blanc. Its fresh with juicy white grapefruit and a hint of lime and salinity with puckering acidity.

Veramonte Chardonnay 2022 Casablanca Valley $13.99  The Chardonnay grapes are harvested first thing in the morning and whole clustered pressed. Some of the wne is barrel fermented in neutral oak with wild yeasts, while the rest is put in stainless steel tanks. Thirty percent of the wine goes through spontaneous malolactic fermentation. Nice minerality and silky on the palate, hint of salinity with great expression of the grape.

Veramonte Pinot Noir 2020 Casablanca Valley $13.99 The Pinot Noir grapes are harvested at night. Fifteen percent goes through whole cluster maceration and fermentation to achieve greater structure. The grapes are fermented in small open tanks with native yeasts. With hot summer and less precipitation during the winter months led to an earlier harvest. The grapes had lower yields but were very expressive and aromatic. Aromas of vanilla, hint of ashtray and earth escape from the glass. On the palate nice strawberry, vanilla, hint of acidity, silky mouth feel and tannins. 

 

Kiss the Ground and Wash it Down with Veramonte Wines - Happy Earth Day

Happy Earth Day! Today, we celebrate Earth and all the wonderful things the earth gives us. But, we take a lot from it. Do we ever think about giving back to earth, becoming more sustainable and ways we can protect our planet?

Veramonte Wines takes this task very seriously. Veramonte is located in Chile. Their vineyards in Casablanca is planted with their white and cool climate grapes, while the reds are planted in Colchagua.

All their vineyards are 100% organic. Their organic practices consist of the following:

• Quality Compost - they use their own compost to maximize the soil and promote balance and self-regulation of the ecosystem.
• Inter-Row Cultivation - To improve the structure and vitality of their soils, cover crops are planted in between rows. This minimizes erosion, improves soil structure and provides nutrients to the soil.
• Incorporation of Animals - Sheep and other animals act as natural fertilizer in addition, cut(eat) grass in the spring and aerate the soil (with their feet)
• Conservation of Biological Corridors - by preserving biodiversity ensures a self-regulating ecosystem, thus having healthy vines
• Pruning & Canopy Management - Ensure proper ventilation and the right amount of foliage to avoid diseases.
• Weed Control - They cultivate the land under the vines. This loosens the soil and generates structure for the vines and enhances the life and microfauna of the soil. The goal is to have healthier soils rich in micro-organisms.

Veramonte has partnered with the non-profit organization Kiss the Ground, which was created to focus its efforts on healthy soils and creating a symbiotic relationship with the earth. Their mission is to awaken people to the possibilities of regeneration.

With every purchase of Veramonte wines, they will contribute to Kiss the Ground and its mission.

Veramonte Wines is priced at $11.99

Veramonte Organic Sauvignon Blanc 2021 - An impressive Sauvignon Blanc with aromas of white grapefruit and lemon zest. The palate is soft with bright acidity and nuisances of white grapefruit, lemon and lime zest. A great summer white! (Found it at Total Wine for $7.99)

Veramonte Organic Chardonnay 2020 - Aged for eight months in oak, this Chardonnay is very easy drinking. Aromas show a hint of vanilla with honeydew melon pear and green apple. The palate is creamy with notes of pear, lemon and green apple.

Veramonte Organic Carmenere 2020 - Aged in French oak for eight months, the 2020 Carmenere is full of red and black fruit. The palate is smooth and balanced and has a nice even finish.

Treat Yourself to Every Day Luxury with Domaines Paul Mas

The table is set, the good china is out and the silver is polished. It’s a special dinner and I think to myself, why don’t I use this china and silver more often. I carefully select the wine for the evening, selections from Domaines Paul Mas, everyday luxury wines; a Chardonnay, a red blend and a Pinot Noir. The menu: Ceviche, Crab Beignets, Duck Breast Confit, Potatoes and Green Beans. Let the evening begin.

I think I need to take a lesson off the books of Jean-Claude Mas, founder of Les Domaines Paul Mas. What is that lesson? “Luxe Rural” - Everyday Luxury. Why do I only bring out my good china and silverware three times a year? Shouldn’t I be enjoying it every day, just like a bottle of wine? I quote Jean-Claude Mas “Our wines are a result of our mission to inspire real emotions.” Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, isn’t everyday a luxury? When we sit down at the dinner table, we want to talk about the day, feel good, proud and enjoy the presentation of the meal and bottle of wine? Just because you are eating on your good china, doesn’t mean the bottle of wine has to be expensive. What is most important is that you like it. After your meal, you are proud, you enjoyed the meal, the wine and your good china that you admire and realize you should be eating on it more often. Like everyday luxury, treat yourself every day!

La Forge Estate

La Forge Estate wines symbolize the fusion of old world and new world winemaking. Like the old school of thought the good china for special occasions, but should really be every day. La Forge Estate wines have new world attitude and are one of Jean-Claude’s signature wines.

The 2017 La Forge Estate Chardonnay is a beautiful expression of Chardonnay that is oaked, but not over-oaked. The Chardonnay was aged for only 4 months in oak barrels. The wine expressed lots of pineapple, tropical fruit, mango, soft hints of lemon and lime and a very subtle hint of toast and vanilla. A great wine for every day or that special occasion. Paired well with the Crab Beignets! SRP $12.99

Chateau Paul Mas Reserve - St. Hilaire Vineyard

The Chateau Paul Mas wines come from 5 vineyards that make up the estate. One of those vineyards is the St Hilaire vineyard where the 2018 Chateau Pal Mas Reserve Pinot Noir comes from. A lovely Pinot Noir with aromas escaping from the glass showing hints of earthiness followed by red raspberry, nutmeg, and licorice. The palate was full of juicy raspberry, cranberry and left lingering black pepper on your lips when finished. Paired beautifully with the duck and the cranberry glaze. SRP $13.99

Château Des Crès Richards

This estate was created in 1960 in the village of Ceyras and in 2010 Jean-Claude Mas acquired the 27 hectares. The soil is unique with red earth, shale and pebbles that produces silky wines with intense flavors.

The 2017 Château Des Crès Richards Stècia is a blend of 60% Syrah 25% Grenache and 15% Carignan. The syrah vines are between 11 and 21 years old and the Grenache and Carignan vines are 42 and 49 years old respectively. The wine showed lots of mocha, hint of menthol followed by chocolate and molasses. The wine paired well with our dessert of white chocolate peanut butter truffles. SRP $19.99

Jean-Claude Mas produces wines from the Languedoc region of France. We should all take note and follow his thoughts of everyday luxury. Everyday luxury is defined by you not by $.

Beach Time with Marshall Davis

I know it’s fall, but here on the east coast it has been a beautiful fall and an exceptionally warm one as well. Since I didn’t get to the beach this summer, I thought the fall would be a great time to go, especially when it was so warm, and why not bring a bottle wine with me. After all, the off season is the best time to relax and enjoy the beach and nobody bothers you.

Marshall Davis

Marshall Davis is located in Carlton Oregon and is in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. If you have ever have the chance to visit this area it is beautiful. It’s like being on the beach in off season. The town is small, quiet and the people are very friendly. At least that is what I experienced when I was out there.

In 2011 three brothers - Sean Davis, Ryan and Matt Marshall founded Marshall Davis to create small batch vineyard specific wines. From their 8 acre vineyard in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA they produce Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. They also source Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from Walla Walla (Washington State) region.

Marshall Davis 2017 Estate Chardonnay SRP $39

This Chardonnay is beautiful and elegant, clean and fresh. Barrel fermented and aged for 16 months in French oak with 20% of that oak new oak. Nice balanced acid and minerality with a slight hint of butter gives way to soft juicy honeydew melon and hints of pineapple. Bring it to the beach, the boat, the bonefire.

Head to the Mountains with Smith-Madrone

Life always takes us on twists and turns. Who knew that one class and liking beer over wine, would change the direction of your future. It did for Stuart Smith of Smith-Madrone wines. After UC Berkeley, Stuart completed his graduate degree at UC Davis in Viticulture and in 1970 purchased a 200-acre ranch on Spring Mountain. Why the mountains, because Stuart felt that grapes grow best on the mountainside.

The Vineyard

Stuart began clearing the land and found evidence of a vineyard that was once home on the part of the property called Cooks Flat. Many of these vineyards were wiped out in the late 19th century from phylloxera. He knew the land was destined for grapes.

Madrone Trees

There were also a lot of Madrone trees on the property. These trees are native to the coastal ranges of the Pacific Northwest. They are beautiful trees that can reach heights of 50 to 100 feet and produce reddish-orange berries. They incorporated the Madrone tree into their name.

Brother Partnership

In 1973 Stuart convinced his brother Charlie to join him on this adventure and the rest is history. The Smiths produce wine from only grapes that they grow. Stuart believes that the wine should be a reflection of those who grow and make it along with the vineyard site itself. He believes that it is those three elements is what gives the wine a sense of uniqueness.

Today Stuart, Charlie and Stuart’s son Sam do all the work. They make wine for their own palates, not for scores. Their wines are impressive, clean and elegant!

The Wine

I had the opportunity to taste Smith-Madrone 2016 Chardonnay and 2016 Riesling. This was my first introduction to Smith-Madrone and I was blown away by the quality, balance and expressions of their wine.

2016 Smith-Madrone Riesling SRP $34

Produced from their seven acres of Riesling and only 1,199 cases made, this wine is a great pool wine, as I brought it to the pool on a cloudy July day. This Riesling will bring the sunshine out on a cloudy day. Nice aromas of apricot and floral notes with hints of minerality. This leads to a palate with nice acidity and minerality with apricot and citrus. The acidity hits your from behind. As the wine warms up there are hints of green apple and a touch of petrol on the nose. Pleasant and refreshing.

2016 Smith-Madrone Chardonnay SRP $40

This wine is produced from their 7.5 acres of Chardonnay and there are only 831 cases produced. The wine is 100% barrel fermented in 80% new French oak and aged for 9 months. What an elegant Chardonnay this is. Aromas of lemon curd and brioche that is clean and vibrant. The silky palate is elegant with hints of butter and Myer lemon and a touch of pineapple. Perfectly balanced with restrained oak and integrated acidity that hits you on the finish.

Sanford Winery & Vineyards: The Terlato Involvement

It was a beautiful June day in New York City and I was going to lunch at Le Bernardin with John Terlato and Michael Benedict from Sanford Winery & Vineyards. I wasn’t that familiar with Sanford Winery but knowing they were from the Sta. Rita Hills AVA in Santa Barbara I knew I was in for a treat.

Michael Benedict, a soft-spoken man with so much knowledge. John Terlato, so excited about what is to come from Sanford!

“The Best Years are Ahead of US!” - John Terlato

About Sanford Winery & Vineyards

Michael Benedict a Botanist, was looking for a cool climate location to plant grapes and craft wines in the 1960’s along with his friend Richard Sanford. He had identified what is now the vineyard as a potentially extraordinary location for planting grapes. In 1971 the Sanford & Benedict vineyard was planted with Chardonnay and Riesling. In 1972 they were the first to plant Pinot Noir in the region.

The vineyards are unique because of the marine-based soils that were deposited there over 10,000 years ago from a landslide. Much of this is Monterey Shale and allows the ground to have an incredible water holding capacity which is good for the vines.

In speaking of the vines, it’s very rare to have a vineyard planted on its own rootstock due to phylloxera. Today Sanford is proud to have 30% of the Founders’ Vines planted on its original rootstock.

The Sanford & Benedict vineyard planted in 1971 has a total of 144 acres is planted with 109 acres of Pinot Noir, 33 acres of Chardonnay and 2 acres of Viognier. Due to the soil content, this allows the vines to stay cook and ripen slowly.

In 1997 the La Rinconada Vineyard was planted adjacent to the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard. While adjacent to the original vineyard, this vineyard soil composition is mostly alluvial soil with some of the Monterey shale. This vineyard has a total of 117 acres with 63 acres planted to Pinot Noir and 54 to Chardonnay.

In 2016 the vineyards and winery were certified sustainable by the Wine Institute.

Vineyard Differences

While the two vineyards may be next to each other they will produce slightly different wines. The grapes from the La Rinconada Vineyard produce more fruit driven wines expressing notes of crushed berries with higher acidity and a velvety smooth finish. While the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard produces more vibrant wines with richer fruit.

The Trelato Involvement

The Terlato family became partners in Sanford Winery in 2002. In 2005 they became the majority owners and purchased the estate in 2007. John said they share a common vision with Michael on what this winery could be and want to focus on the vineyard. “Treat every vineyard block as people John said, are they an introvert, extrovert, like contact. They have to identify what each vineyard block represents and manage them through harvest and vinification to highlight them. There is a definitive progression and that progression is toward the vineyard.”

John believes there are 5 common threads between the great important wines of the world.

1. There is a family involved. Owned by a family. Families have a way of establishing a vision and driving that vision through generations.

2.Specific identifiable vineyards.

3. Families have a crystal clear vision on what they can do with their vineyard holdings. Their vision is based on what the vineyard has to offer.

4. Have a winemaker that is talented and passionate, also aligned with the vision of the family. A winemaker that will allow the vineyard to reveal itself without interference.

5. Produce wines are beautiful when young and are age worthy.

John believes the best years at Sanford are ahead of them!

Sanford Wines

2011 Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir - Beautiful and clean with nice fruity notes of cherry and strawberry with hint of white pepper.

2013 Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir (SRP $140)- Silky on the palate with notes of earth and spice with red fruit and a nice black cherry lingering finish

2014 Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir (SRP$70) Bright red fruit, medium weight nuisances of baking spices and hint of white pepper.

2015 Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir (SRP $70)A lighter mouthfeel with brighter acidity and supple tannins. Notes of raspberry and minerality shine through.

2016Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir (SRP $70) Complex aromas of raspberry fields, hint of mocha leads to a palate full of red fruit and spice.

2016 La Rinconada Chardonnay ($50) Beautiful with nice acidity and minerality with notes and citrus, lemon, green melon and hint of stone fruits.

2015 Founders’ Vineys Chardonnay (SRP $70) Nice minerality with citrus shining through, hints of honeydew melon and butterscotch.

2015 La Rinconada Pinot Noir (SRP $72)Hints of earthiness with cherry and black raspberry notes and a hint of anise finishes with a lingering spice finish.

2014 Founders’ Vines Pinot Noir (SRP 120) Silky and elegant with red fruit dancing on your palate is combined with nice acidity and hints of tannins.

Spring into Summer with Hess Select Whites

It’s that time of year when I begin to drink more white wines. In our home the saying is if it’s light outside, it’s a white. I was excited to taste some of the Hess Select whites, especially after tasting some of the reds. (see previous post here)

To celebrate Spring I brought these three Hess Select whites over to my friend Jenn’s house to be enjoyed for the first barbecue of the season. On the menu were Turkey Burgers and bean salad. I’ll let you know which one paired the best at the end.

I am not a big Pinot Gris fan so I was excited to taste the Hess Select 2017 Pinot Gris. I’m always trying to expand my palate and comfort zone. You have to realize, if you are not thrilled with a wine variety by one winery, you might be impressed by the same variety by another winery especially if it’s from a different part of the world. With that in mind I have to say I was impressed with the 2017 Pinot Gris. So impressed, I was smiling after taking the first sip.

This Pinot Gris is fermented in stainless steel with no oak influence. Perhaps that is why I enjoyed it so much. Aromas of white flowers and pineapple immediately brightened the Spring evening. Flavors of tropical fruit, pineapple and a touch of honey fills your palate with nicely balanced soft acidity. This wine is great value at $13. This will pair nicely with white fish.

Hess Select 2016 Monterey County Chardonnay was fermented in 75% stainless steel and 25% new French oak. The grapes come from Shirtail Creek estate vineyard that benefits from the cooling fog of Monterey and the costal breezes. This Chardonnay had wonderful clean expression of fruit and nice balanced acidity. Flavors of melon, pineapple and green apple expressed themselves with a slight hint of butterscotch on the finish. Another great value summer wine from Hess at $12. I can see pairing this Chardonnay with a nice fresh lobster!

Hess Select North Coast 2016 Sauvignon Blanc fermented in stainless steel has nice bright acidity and not to racy. The North Coast of California is unique with a mild Mediterranean climate and well drained volcanic and gravelly soils that allow the Sauvignon Blanc to thrive. Nice flavors of citrus and tropical notes. Another great value from Hess at $13. This would pair nicely with shellfish.

What paired the best with the turkey burgers? The Pinot Gris and the Chardonnay.

Thralls Family Cellars 2013 Chardonnay Antonio Mountain

I knew Ed Thralls from the wine blogging community.  He had a blog called "WineTonight," but we met in person in 2010 when a few of us took a hike in Napa. It was the 3 hour tour. Yes, it turned into a 6 hour hike.

Ed had just relocated to the Napa area from Atlanta to begin following his dream, producing his own wine.  Well, I must say it didn't take him to long to realize his dream.  Congratulations Ed! I'm real proud of you.

Of course I had to purchase some of his wine and try it. Boy did I like it and can't wait to taste the other selections.

The 2013 Thralls Family Cellars Chardonnay came from a vineyard in the Antonio Mountain Vineyard located in the Petaluma Gap. There were only 74 cases of this Chardonnay made.

The wine was aged in 50% neutral oak barrels and 50% stainless steel for 8 months.  It went through 100% malolactic fermentation and was aged 8 months before bottling in September of 2014. 

Aromas of Anjou pear, a citrus blend and a touch of butter filled the glass.  One sip and both Paul and I had smiles on our faces.  Well done! Flavors of red apple, Anjou pear,, creamy and delicate with just the right balance.

The wine was paired with Butternut Squash Ravioli in a brown butter sage sauce served over a bed of greens. Perfect pairing at that!

Unfortunately Thralls is only sold at select stores in California. But the god news is you can order from his website and the UPS man can deliver it.

Get Your Free Wine & Food Pairing Guide

Hanna Winery 2013 Chardonnay

Located in the Sonoma Valley and founded in 1985 by world-renowned cardiac surgeon Dr. Elias Hanna to get back to his farming heritage, today is run by his daughter Christine. They own 600 acres of vines in Sonoma's Russian River Valley, Alexander Valley and the Mayacamas Mountains.

Their 2013 Estate Grown Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley is hand sorted at harvest and pressed whole cluster while still cold.  It is then racked into 60 gallon French oak barrels and fermented.

The wine was beautiful in color, slightly gold with lots of aromas coming out of the glass.  Hints of minerality, butter, pear, melon, and lemongrass.  I was looking forward to what I would taste.  Once on ,my palate the wine was so enjoyable and refreshing.  Flavors of soft pear, apple with a finish that had hints of lemon and soft buttery notes.

This wine retails for approximately $25.  Would be a great Chardonnay to serve at a business function.

**Disclaimer: I received this as a media sample.

Shades of Chardonnay

Wine tasting can be complicated, or as complicated as you make it.  We are all individuals with different tastes. Our taste are as individual to us as our fingerprints are.

When you taste a wine and don't taste and smell all the aromas and flavors your friends do, it's okay. Your taste buds are tasting other flavors that are a bit stronger to you.

When tasting Chardonnay the flavors and aromas that you can be experiencing from the glass are below.

Keep in mind, a lot will depend on the type of Chardonnay you are tasting.  Cool climate Chardonnay vs. warm climate.  Oaked vs. unoaked. Young vines vs. old vines and the type of soil its grown in.

You might get 4 or 5 of the flavors/aromas or 2 or 3. Next time you are drinking a Chardonnay, swirl, sniff and taste and let me know what flavors are on your palate.

Going Organic with Bonterra Chardonnay

Since 1993 Bonterra has been producing wine from 100% organic grapes. For those wondering what that means, they use certified organic practices, which include composting, cover crops and biodiversity.

All of their wines must pass Demeter Certification before it can carry the Biodynamic designation.  What is the Biodynamic designation? They have to be certified by Demeter and live up to the Biodynamic farm and processing standards.  The farm standards are a comprehensive organic farming method that requires the creation and management of a closed system minimally dependent on imported materials.

The Demeter Biodynamic processing standard fundamentally ensures an unbroken chain of accountability from the farm to the finished product.  The standards protect against manipulation of the Biodynamic agricultural ingredients as much as possible and allow for the integrity to define the product.

This Bontera 2011 Chardonnay was suppose to get to me in time for a winechat, but unfortunately UPS didn't receive the memo and the packaged arrived 2 days late.

The Chardonnay fruit in this wine comes from Mendocino and 54% we fermented in a combination of neutral French and American oak, 16% was in new oak and was allowed to undergo malolactic fermentation.  The remaining 30% was fermented in stainless steel.  This is was reserves the crisp fruit flavors you get in this wine.

The wine had aromas of melon, pineapple and hints of floral and honey. The palate showed green apple, citrus and lime.  It had a nice rounded mouth feel due to the malolactic fermentation and there was a slight bitter note on the finish.

This wine retails for $14.00

Disclaimer: I received this wine as a media sample from the winery.

Flanagan 2009 Chardonnay

Not sure if I ever told you the story between me, Paul and Eric Flanagan. It all began at a wine tasting at Vintners Collective in Napa.  Paul was our chauffeur for a bachelorette party.  My friend Diane was getting married (she lives in the Bay area) and he was driving the 5 of us around and was a great sport about it. (Yes I have the best husband!)

The last stop of the day was Vintners Collective and we had a tasting out on their deck.  We tasted all reds because the crowd  I was with was a red crowd.  After the tasting we were all mingling with the other people on the deck and I started talking with Eric Flanagan.  Paul came over and Eric and Paul really hit it off.  We were invited to his winery in the Bennett Valley which we went to after out tasting a J Vineyards.  An email with the gate code found us climbing a mountain, opening two gates and reaching the top where we found Eric and his winery.

He has a really impressive place!  We actually did taste this 2009 Chardonnay prior to its release during this visit.  That was in 2010.  When the wine was released we purchased a couple of bottles and opened one a few weeks ago.

There were 170 cases of this wine produced.  The wine is barrel aged in for 15 months in 50% new French oak.  The grapes were harvested October 6, 2009 and clocked in at 23.9 brix, T/A of 5.0 and ph 3.96.

The Chardonnay was beautiful, elegant and romantic.  Layers of pear, honeysuckle, butter and oak filled the glass.  Just the aromas put a romantic feel on the evening.  The wine was very nicely balanced with nice expression of the fruit.  Apple and butterscotch were dominant with a nice citrus lime finish.

I think this was the last Flanagan Chardonnay. Might have to begin to test the reds.

Leonard Oaks Estate Winery 2010 Chardonnay

This is one of the wines I acquired this summer and was very excited I've not tasted from this New York winery before.

Tucked along the Niagara Wine Trail in Medina, NY you'll find Leonard Oakes Winery, a family winery that began in 2003 when the first grapes were planted.  Today it's run by three generations of the Oakes family.

Being that this is the first selection I've tasted from this winery, I had no preconceived ideas of what the wine would taste like. The cork was popped and the wine was poured.

On the first swirl of the glass aromas of melon fill your nose.  Then aromas of green apple and citrus followed.

The win was very nice!  Soft on the palate this wine with nice structure. Flavors of cantelope and lemon on the finish. The wine wasn't oaked so you got some nice fruit showing through.

I was definitely impressed with this wine and look forward to more from the winery.

This wine sell for $14.95 in their tasting room.

Charmed by Les Charmes

Today we visit France and the lovely 2010 Unaoked Chardonnay from Les Charmes, Macon-Lugny.

A little history, Cave de Lugny is a cooperative of over 250 wine-growing estates and 1500 hectares all AOC Burgundy-Maconnais.  They control approximately 1/3 of production in Southern Burgundy and approximately 50% of the toatl production in Maconnais.  All the grapes from this single vineyard Chardonnay come from a vineyard names "Les Charmes" in the commune of Lugny where they have a chalky and limestone soil.

The wine goes through fermentation in controlled stainless steel vats and then racked on the lees for 12 months.  The wine is bottled after 12 months.  From the soft creamy texture I am assuming it goes through at least 50% malolactic fermentation.

This wine will make a great summer time wine.  A nose of citrus and minerals gives way to a soft creamy texture with flavors of pear, green apple and a bit of limestone.  The wine is very well balanced and has a hit of spice on the finish.

Disclaimer: This wine was a media sample from Pasternak Imports.

Whitecliff Vineyards Vertical Chardonnay Tasting

I took part in a vertical tasting of Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery's Chardonnay.  I am going to read you off the notes I have from the tasting.  We also tasting the 2011 from the barrel.

2006 - This Chardonnay came from Whitecliff's estate and  Laurel Lake in Long Island.  Nose of lemon curd and was very flavorful
2007 - It's not dead yet, but it's marching.
2008 - Estate Bottled.  Nose of honeysuckle.  The second swirl is all honey.  On the palate there was hints of almonds.  Picked at brix of 22 and ph of 3.5
2009 Higher acid and good balance.  Taste of oak.
2010 Aromas are fresh with a hint of  bitterness on the finish
2011 Awesome nose with strong hints of butter.  Palate a bit oaky and a little green but that will be racked out.

Going into the tasting I honestly thought the 2006 would be the one I liked the least, but it is really holding its own quite well.   It was interesting to see the comparisons in age as well as location of the grapes used.

Gallo Family - William Hill Napa Vally Bench Blend Chardonnay

It always interesting when you taste to wines from the same year from the same winemaker and they are remarkably different.

That's what I found when I tasted the 2009 William Hill Napa Valley Bench Blend Chardonnay. Striking differences from the 09 Napa Valley Chardonnay.  This Chardonnay was much lighter in structure but tighter wound.  It needed to open up and relax some.

The grapes used in the wine were hand harvested and pressed as whole clusters.  Grape solids were left in the fermenting juice to add complexity and style to the wine.  The wine underwent malolactic fermentation in barrel which enriched the mouth feel and added complexity to the finished product..  The Chardonnay was 100% barrel aged in 55% new French oak.  The wine was bottle aged 6 months prior to its release.

The wine had some nice aromas of peach, tropical fruit and finishing with melon.  The palate was soft and lush with hints of stone fruit and some nice notes of tasted oak and vanilla.

The wine retails for $35.

All in the Gallo Family - William Hill Napa Valley Chardonnay

Continuing with my Gallo tasting we move to the William Hill Estate Winery, 2009 Napa Valley Chardonnay. If you do not like a heavy, oaky, buttery Chardonnay this is not the wine for you.

The Chardonnay grapes were pressed as whole clusters.  After settling overnight they were racked, inoculated and fermented in new and used oak barrels and all the wine underwent malolactic fermentation.  Some of the wine was racked off the lees after primary fermentation, others were allowed to sit on the lees during aging.  The final blending, blended the two lots.

This wine had quite a body to it.  On the nose I got some toasty oak and a hint of spice with some butter.  The palate lends itself to some tree fruit flavors and a long finish with hints of melted butter. The oak was well balanced.  It does have a hint of sweetness to it with .67 g/100ml of residual sugar to balance out the acidity.

This would be a great wine to pair with lobster tails!  This wine retails for $25

The Other Wines in the House - Foppiano Vineyards Chardonnay

Last October we were in the Russian River Valley.  We were heading to our tasting at J Vineyards but had some time to kill, so we stopped at Foppiano Vineyards. (You have to make the best use of your time.)  We had some wines sent home from here and this 2009 Estate Bottled Chardonnay was one of them.

The Chardonnay was a beautiful light straw color and wasn't heavily oaked so it was light and refreshing on a summers day.  The nose carried aromas of pear, citrus, a tad of honey, creamy oak and a bit of spice.

One the palate I found pear and orange blossom with a long sightly buttery finish.  There was also hints of orange blossom on the finish.  A nice wine on a nice summers evening.

Hudson Valley Chardonnay Crush

Michael Migliore of Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery recently processed a few tons of Chardonnay he received from the vineyard in Hudson, New York.  This vineyard sits on the banks of the Hudson and has it's own micro climate. The grapes looked great and the juice was mighty tasty!