Nose
Displays classic Napa Valley Chardonnay characteristics indicative of this region such as baked apple, ripe Bosc pear and lemon curd.
Palate
A soft mouthfeel supports flavors of guava, pineapple, Braeburn apple and Bosc pear that leads into a long finish of mild toasted oak and creme brûlée. Balanced, persistent acidity with an nice oily texture and a dry finish pulls together this well balanced, full-bodied Chardonnay.
Growing Conditions
The 2018 growing season offered superlative growing conditions with abundant rain at the beginning of the year. Plenty of sunshine and moderate temperatures throughout the spring and summer led up to a harvest with great crop quality.
Harvest
Grapes for the 2018 Napa Cellars Chardonnay were selected from vineyards in renowned Chardonnay locations including south Napa Valley, Oak Knoll and Carneros. The proximity of these vineyards to the fog and breeze from San Francisco and Marin Bay creates a cooler climate, which is ideal for growing Chardonnay. These coastal effects also allow for a longer growing season, giving the fruit more time on the vine and helping produce energetic acidity and flavorful fruit.
Winemaking
At Napa Cellars, the Chardonnay grapes are carefully hand-picked, harvested and crushed.
Aging
Aged in 100% French oak barrels.
Food Pairing
This is the perfect wine to pair with a Camembert French cheese plate drizzled with local honey and almond halves, or with panna cotta topped with fresh berries for dessert.
