Although Chalone's estate vineyards occupy their own unique AVA between Monterey and San Benito County to the north, this value-priced "Monterey County" bottling is made with fruit sourced from the Salinas Valley, where cool ocean breezes funnel up the valley, creating prime growing conditions for Cardonnay in AVAs like Arroyo Seco. A modest oak regimen of ten months in mixed used barrels keeps this Chard fruit-focused.
The wine is bright gold in the glass, with nice aromas of meyer lemon, apple, pear, stone fruits, and brioche. On the palate, the brisk attack tells of crisp acidity, while the flaror profile strikes a nice balance between fruit, minerality, and richness derived from sur lie aging. Lemon curd, pear, green apple, and whie peach mingle with pastry and toast notes, with an underlying limestone minerality, and a tasteful touch of creaminess. The finish is consistent and of decent length, with plenty of fruit and a dash of oak, but closes dry and clean.
For a $9 Chardonnay, this is a definite winner - combines varietal correctness with a tasteful oak and malolactic treatment, and a bit of class from the good acidity and minerality. No rough edges or disjointed alcohol - a no-brainer, go-to CA Chardonnay for any occasion. Delicious with broiled chicken cutlets wrapped around spinach and brie!
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