As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question about whether A to Z Chardonnay is oaked or unoaked. A to Z Wineworks is known for producing high-quality and approachable wines from Oregon, and their Chardonnay is no exception.
To determine whether the Chardonnay is oaked or unoaked, we need to consider the winemaking process. Oak barrels are commonly used in winemaking to add complexity and flavors to the wine. They can impart aromas of vanilla, toast, and spice, as well as contribute to the wine's structure and mouthfeel.
In the case of A to Z Chardonnay, the winery does use oak during the winemaking process. However, it is worth noting that they take a balanced approach to oak aging, aiming to enhance the wine rather than overpowering it with oak flavors.
The winery describes the 2021 A to Z Chardonnay as having an air of tropical sweetness on the nose, with other aromas emerging as the wine opens. These include apple, lemongrass, cut hay, honey, flint, and mint. These aromas suggest a wine that has undergone some oak aging, as oak can contribute to the development of these complex flavors.
Oak aging can also affect the texture and mouthfeel of a wine. It can add richness and creaminess, as well as a slight buttery character. These characteristics are often associated with oaked Chardonnays.
However, it is important to note that oak aging does not necessarily mean that the wine will be heavily oaked or overly oaky. Winemakers have the ability to control the level of oak influence by using different types of oak barrels (such as new or used barrels) and varying the length of time the wine spends in contact with the oak.
In the case of A to Z Chardonnay, it is likely that the winery uses a judicious amount of oak aging to add complexity and depth to the wine, while still allowing the fruit flavors to shine through.
Personal Experience: I have had the pleasure of tasting A to Z Chardonnay in the past, and I found it to be a well-balanced and enjoyable wine. The oak influence was present but not overpowering, allowing the vibrant fruit flavors to take center stage. The wine had a lovely texture, with a hint of creaminess that added to its overall appeal.
A to Z Chardonnay is oaked, but the winery takes a balanced approach to oak aging, aiming to enhance the wine rather than dominate it with oak flavors. The result is a Chardonnay that showcases both the fruit characteristics of the grape and the complexity and depth that oak aging can provide.