2022 La Crema Saralee's Russian River Chardonnay, Sonoma County

Pouring a bright medium yellow color, the 2022 Chardonnay Saralees Vineyard was also entirely barrel fermented and was aged for 9 months in 35% new French oak. In the glass, it takes on a touch of flinty wet stone on the nose, with notes of golden apple, preserved lemon, fresh flowers, and saline. Full-bodied, it has an elegantly rounded feel, with notes of almond coating the palate. It has a lovely, decadent feel, very pretty and silky, without ever feeling weighted, and reveals a very nice, rounded finish. It shows the sunny elegance of the vintage and is going to have a wide drinking window over the next 5-6 years.

92 points Jeb Dunnuck

This rich but not overpowering Chard displays aromas of lemon curd, ripe apple, honeysuckle and vanilla on the nose. The palate brings flavors of tangerine, spiced pear and white flowers that linger across an oak and citrus scented finish

91 points Wine Enthusiast

La Crema has been a leading name in cool climate California Chardonnay since its beginnings in 1979, earning a reputation for wines that combine generous fruit with elegance and regional character. Now part of the Jackson Family Wines portfolio, the winery has a particular affection for Sonoma County's finest vineyards. Saralee's Vineyard is one of the Russian River Valley's most treasured sites, named after the much loved winegrower Saralee Kunde, whose dedication helped shape the region's reputation.

Situated in the heart of the Russian River Valley, Saralee's Vineyard benefits from cool Pacific fog and warm afternoon sunshine, allowing Chardonnay to develop rich flavours while retaining refreshing acidity. The 2022 vintage produced beautifully ripe fruit, giving this single vineyard wine an appealing combination of concentration, texture and freshness.

Bright golden straw with delicate green reflections. Ripe nectarine, baked pear and Meyer lemon mingle with honeysuckle, toasted brioche and roasted hazelnut. The palate is generous and silky, with succulent stone fruit, a lovely creamy richness and enough citrus acidity to keep everything beautifully balanced. Hints of vanilla bean, almond pastry and gentle baking spice linger through a long, satisfying finish.

Try it with grilled Moreton Bay bugs and fresh tarragon, roasted pumpkin and ricotta agnolotti, or pan fried snapper with sweetcorn and basil. Its richness would also be wonderful alongside a golden cauliflower gratin with Parmesan and thyme.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2032. Already delicious for its generous fruit and creamy texture, with the structure to develop further complexity over several years.