2016 Red Car Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
Divvy-Up
80 Points
Tasting Notes
90 Points
"An oaky nose of caramel and brioche gives way to a lighter, brighter midpalate of high-toned acidity and fresh flavors of lemon and tangerine. The ripeness is balanced and well integrated with the tannin and oak." - Wine Enthusiast
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p>With Lemon zest, wet stone and chamomile aromas, Red Car Sonoma Coast Chardonnay features some of the coolest Chardonnay vineyards in California. A significant portion of the blend hails from the Ritchie Vineyard, famous the world over.
In 2016, conditions were outstanding for Chardonnay in the West Sonoma Coast. Plenty of sunshine, a small but focused crop, and little rain before harvest yielded little clusters with high acid and complex flavors at reasonably low sugars, which resulted in wines with naturally moderate alcohol levels.
Our Chardonnay grapes are pressed off their skins and fermented in French Oak barrels, the majority of which are older, neutral and no longer imparting strong oak flavors. The resulting wines are racy and taut, medium bodied and complex with a mineral edge.
Comments
Fort Ross and Seaview Sub-AVA of Sonoma Coast
These high ridge lines north of Jenner present some of the most formidable terrain for growing grapes, and for the winemakers, some of the most unique and sought-after fruit. The proximity to the Pacific allows for an extended growing season due to the cooling influences. The combinations of soils from the ancient sea floor now converted into mountain by the relentless clash of the Pacific and North American tectonic plates, the elevation of the vineyards, the winds, the vineyard exposures and the clones that wine growers prefer for these rugged growing sites make for unique cool climate wines.
While the AVA designation was registered in 2012, the area is actually home to the first grapes planted in Sonoma County when Fort Ross was established in 1817. The region began to be developed for wine grapes again in the 1970s, starting with riesling, but really became recognized as a source for excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay fruit in the 1990s when wineries such as Kistler, Littorai and Williams Selyem began to source fruit from local growers. The struggle that these vines experience in this AVA produce wines of extraordinary quality and a distinctive sense of place.
A beautiful and balanced Sonoma Chard. Great entry with hint of mellon and a touch of oak, beautiful texture and a great finish. The wine is textured and is above its fragrance profile, and the acidity captures your taste buds as you enjoy your 1st sip. A great wine to drink by itself or with a nice cheese platter with a creamy brie and some nice Italian salami. The color is gorgeous and continues to excel in the glass. A wine you can enjoy by itself or as a lead in for a great meal...or just a fantastic happy hour. Great with cheese; open it up and enjoy by yourself or share a little with your friends. Red Car continues to show its versatility and value.
Thanks for the review. Will need a wine as a lead in for meals that pairs well with a cheese board. Our family loves that as a pre-meal appetizer.