2022 Chardonnay
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Our 2022 vintage continues a long history of Chuck Hovey's classic style. This wine is barreled on neutral oak giving it just a hint of oak you expect with a Chardonnay, while not overpowering the fruit. This wine is more like a fruit-forward Sonoma style of Chardonnay than the oaky Napa style of this varietal.
Wine Specs
Vintage
2022
Varietal
Chardonnay
Appellation
Sierra Foothills
Vineyard Designation
Chatom Vineyards
Harvest Date
Fall 2023
Acid
6.3
pH
3.44
Bottling Date
2/8/2024
Residual Sugar
1.3
Alcohol %
14.5
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
The first thing you notice when you pour a glass of the Chardonnay is its sparkle -- the way it captures the light. The light straw color is brilliant as you swirl the wine in your glass. As you breathe in, there is a hint of apricot, and some lovely melon. That first sip makes you think of ripe pears and apples, and on the finish there's a perfect balance of toasty vanilla which comes from the light use of oak barrels. The barreling also provides structure and nicely balances the natural acidity of the fruit. The silky mouthfeel continues with soft subtle oak and a long lingering finish.
Vineyard Notes
100% of this fruit come from Chatom Vineyards off Esmerelda Road in Calaveras County. The Wente chardonnay clone comes from the Burgundy region of France and is the source of 80% of American Chardonnay. That said, the character and nature of chardonnay varies greatly from vineyard to vineyard, and winemaker to winemaker. Thanks to the folks at Chatom, our Chardonnay is consistently fantastic.
Production Notes
Aged in mostly neutral oak barrels gives the wine a lovely subtle mouthfeel and hints of vanilla.
Winemaker Notes
Chuck Hovey's style was to "let the fruit do its thing." We hold true to Chuck's vision, and that's what sets our Chardonnay apart. This wine is very much what Chardonnay grapes want to taste like.
Food Pairing Notes
Our 2022 Chardonnay is well suited to more classic pairings like scallops, lobster, or any seafood dipped in butter. A grilled salmon or roast chicken would be more than enjoyable, as would a lovely picnic of french bread and brie cheese.