Low In-Stock
25% Off
Tasting Notes
The 2023 Sterling Reserve Chardonnay opens with aromas of fresh Meyer lemon, golden apple, and ripe apricot, mingling with hints of crème brûlée, toasted almond, and subtle baking spices. On the palate, a lush, creamy texture is enlivened by vibrant acidity, carrying flavors of candied citrus, peach cobbler, and honeyed vanilla. The finish is long and complex, revealing whispers of minerality and delicate oak nuances. Perfectly crafted for moments of celebration or pairing with fine cuisine, this vintage is a shining example of Napa Valley Chardonnay at its finest.
Technical information
Vintage
2022
Varietal
Chardonnay
Appellation
Napa Valley
Alcohol
14.8%
Volume
750 mL
Winemaking
Our Chardonnay was hand-harvested in the early morning and gently pressed at
the winery. Fermentation took place in French oak barrels. The wine underwent full malolactic fermentation, lending a creamy texture and luxurious mouthfeel. Aged for many months on the lees, with regular bâtonnage (stirring), the wine showcases a seamless balance of richness, freshness, and elegance.
the winery. Fermentation took place in French oak barrels. The wine underwent full malolactic fermentation, lending a creamy texture and luxurious mouthfeel. Aged for many months on the lees, with regular bâtonnage (stirring), the wine showcases a seamless balance of richness, freshness, and elegance.
Vintage
The first half of the 2022 harvest started calm and early, with healthy vineyards offering fruit with bright acidity, fruit-forward flavors, and strong yields for white varietals. Then, California experienced a historic heat wave in early September that ramped up the pace of ripening, compelling a fast and furious harvest as winemakers worked to pick fruit at its peak quality. Fortunately, strong vines and proactive irrigation helped many of our vineyards survive the heat. The second half of the growing season was much more predictable with cooler temperatures through October so that later-ripening red varieties could develop their full flavor and tannin profile.
Vineyard
Fruit for this Napa Valley Chardonnay comes from vineyard sites primarily in the most southern part of Napa Valley, as well as a few sites further north. From the Carneros AVA, Stanly Ranch and BV Ranch 9 are featured, here the region’s shallow clay loam soils and marine-influenced climate foster ripe, beautifully balanced chardonnays. Further north in the Oak Knoll and Oakville AVAs, Big Ranch and Gamble Ranch contribute riper fruit profiles, with a round, creamy mouthfeel. These vineyard sites consistently produce Chardonnay ideal for our style of winemaking with fresh fruit flavors and bright acidity.