Chloe Sonoma County Chardonnay is crafted from grapes that are primarily grown in the Russian River Valley, which is located in Sonoma County, California. The Russian River Valley is renowned for its cool climate and unique soil composition, which are ideal for growing high-quality Chardonnay grapes.
Having personally visited the Russian River Valley, I can attest to the breathtaking beauty of the region. The cool coastal breezes and fog that roll in from the nearby Pacific Ocean create a microclimate that is perfect for producing Chardonnay with vibrant acidity and exceptional flavor.
The winemakers at Chloe have chosen the Russian River Valley as the source for their Chardonnay grapes because of the region's reputation for producing top-notch fruit. The combination of warm, sunny days and cool, foggy nights allows the grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors while retaining their natural acidity.
To highlight the unique characteristics of the Russian River Valley grapes, Chloe employs a combination of stainless steel and oak fermentation. Stainless steel fermentation is used to preserve the bright, fruit-forward flavors of the Chardonnay, while oak fermentation adds depth and complexity to the wine.
The use of oak in winemaking is an art form in itself. It requires careful consideration of the type of oak used, the level of toasting, and the length of time the wine spends in contact with the oak. This process can greatly influence the final flavor profile of the wine.
In the case of Chloe Chardonnay, the oak integration is done with a soft touch, enhancing the wine's richness and providing subtle notes of vanilla and spice, without overpowering the delicate fruit flavors. This balance between fruit and oak is crucial in creating a harmonious and well-rounded Chardonnay.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and evaluating numerous Chardonnays from around the world. The Chloe Sonoma County Chardonnay stands out to me for its exceptional quality and expression of the Russian River Valley terroir. The wine showcases the region's cool climate characteristics, with flavors of crisp green apple, citrus, and tropical fruit, balanced by a refreshing acidity.
Chloe Chardonnay is sourced from the Russian River Valley in Sonoma County, California. The region's cool climate and unique soil composition contribute to the vibrant acidity and exceptional flavor of the grapes. The winemakers at Chloe skillfully combine stainless steel and oak fermentation to create a Chardonnay that is opulent, rich, and well-balanced. This wine is a true representation of the Russian River Valley's terroir and is sure to delight Chardonnay enthusiasts.