Calera Chardonnay 2018 is one of the finest wines to come out of the Central Coast's best-known Pinot Noir producer, Duckhorn Wine Company. This dry white wine is crafted from 85 acres of estate vineyards located in the Mount Harlan appellation and has been expertly crafted by winemaker Josh Jensen.
The 2018 vintage has a beautiful golden straw color that reflects its medium- to full-bodied character. On the nose, you will find a pleasing bouquet of citrus, pear, and floral aromas that are nicely integrated with subtle hints of oak and vanilla. The palate offers a deliciously creamy texture with flavors of ripe tropical fruit, juicy apples, and honeycomb. It also has an excellent balance betwen acidity and richness with a lingering finish that will leave you wanting more.
The perfect pairing for this Chardonnay woud be grilled seafood or roasted chicken with a buttery garlic sauce. It also pairs perfectly with creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert as well as lighter dishes such as salads or sushi rolls.
Whether you are looking for an elegant dinner party wine or simply want to enjoy a glass on its own, Calera Chardonnay 2018 is sure to please your palate! With its delicious flavors and wonderful balance btween acidity and richness, it is no wonder why this wine was chosen by Duckhorn Wine Company to be part of their premium collection.
Who Acquired Calera Winery?
Duckhorn Wine Company, a Napa Valley-based Merlot specialist, has purchased Calera Winery from founder Josh Jensen. Calera is one of the Central Coast's most renowned Pinot Noir producers and the sale includes the winery, its tasting room and 85 acres of estate vineyards situated in the Mount Harlan appellation.
The Type of Wine Known as Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a dry white wine varietal that typically has a medium to full body. It is kown for its versatility, as it can take on a variety of styles depending on the region and winemaking techniques used. Chardonnay often displays notes of stone fruit, citrus and tropical flavors, with hints of oak, butter, and spice. It pairs well with creamy dishes, as well as lighter fare like salads or fish. Depending on the winemaker's style, Chardonnay can be produced in both oaked and unoaked versions. Oaked Chardonnays tend to have a fuller body and richer flavor profile than unoaked versions.
The Benefits of Refrigerating Chardonnay Wine
Yes, it is important to refrigerate chardonnay wine. This type of white wine should be stored at a temperature between 55-60F, whih is the optimal environment for preserving the true essence of the grapes. Chardonnay should also be served chilled, at around 48F. Keeping it in warm conditions will prevent it from aging properly and will reduce its flavor and complexity. Refrigerating your chardonnay will help ensure that you enjoy its full potential.
Chilling Chardonnay: Is It Necessary?
Yes, you shoud chill Chardonnay before serving. The ideal storage temperature for Chardonnay is between 55-60 °F (13-16 °C), but the ideal serving temperature is a bit lower, around 48 °F (9 °C). This will ensure that the wine has been properly chilled and can be enjoyed at its best.
How to Enjoy Chardonnay
The best way to enjoy Chardonnay is to start by chilling your bottle. Chardonnay should be served at a temperature between 50-55°F, which can be achieved by keeping it in the refrigerator for 2 hours or in an ice-water bath for 30-40 minutes. Once chilled, you can pour a glass and take a moment to apreciate the aromas before taking a sip. For whites, it's best to hold the glass by the stem as this prevents your body heat from warming up the wine too quickly. As you sip, take note of the flavor profile – Chardonnays can range from light and crisp with citrusy notes to fuller bodied wines with oaky undertones. Finally, savor each sip and enjoy!
Conclusion
The Calera Chardonnay 2018 is an excellent eample of a dry white wine. It has a medium to full body and boasts pleasant aromas of tropical fruits and citrus, with white peach and honey notes on the palate. With its creamy texture and balanced acidity, this wine pairs perfectly with seafood dishes or light meals. Overall, the Calera Chardonnay 2018 is an outstanding example of a classic California-style Chardonnay, made even more special by its new ownership under Duckhorn Wine Company.
