2021 Chardonnay

Description

2021 Chardonnay 

Varietal: Chardonnay

Vineyard: Riverbench

Region: Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, CA

Shirah’s first varietal Chardonnay. This Chardonnay hails from Riverbench Vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley, a famous site dedicated to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The cool climate allows for these varieties to hang very late in the season, developing amazing physiological ripeness even at respectable sugar levels. Our Chardonnay was harvested in early November at 23 brix. Truly a cool climate site. The wine went through malolactic fermentation in once used Stockinger barrels which imparted subtle toast notes and added textural richness. It was bottled unfiltered, capturing its full flavor and texture potential. This is a  modern Californian styled Chardonnay with good acidity and balanced alcohol, and the richness and buttery texture make this a hedonistic, hearty wine. It’s very versatile food pairing wise and very enjoyable on its own.

Last Date Tasted: December, 2022

Color: gold

Nose: tropical spicy pineapple, ripe orchard fruit, honey, banana, subtle Stockinger oak

Mouth: rich, mouth coating buttery texture, beautiful ripe orchard fruit, tropical pineapple fruit, toasted brioche, jasmine, marmalade, bubble gum.

Decant for: Decanting is not necessary for this wine but an hour of decanting will allow this wine to open up nicely.

Pair with: everything! Should be very enjoyable with roast chicken, fatty fish entrees and cheese

Drinkability: Drink now through 2027