2023 Cannonball Chardonnay, Sonoma County

The Cannonball Chardonnay from Sonoma County is a bright, approachable and modern Californian white that balances ripe fruit generosity with freshness and finesse. Cannonball Wines was founded in 2006 with a playful ethos – to make wines that are expressive, fun, and food-friendly, while staying true to the character of Sonoma’s diverse terroirs. Their Chardonnay is crafted from fruit grown across cooler sites in the county, where fog and coastal breezes help retain acidity, giving the wine vibrancy alongside its classic Californian richness.

In the glass it is pale straw with golden highlights. The bouquet is lifted and expressive, showing ripe apple, pear and peach layered with lemon curd, pineapple, vanilla and a hint of toasted oak. On the palate it is medium-bodied and rounded, with juicy orchard and tropical fruits supported by a creamy texture and balanced acidity. Gentle oak influence brings notes of spice and nougat, while the finish is smooth, refreshing and easy to enjoy.

Food pairings suit its generous yet fresh style: roast chicken, seared scallops, salmon with beurre blanc, or vegetarian dishes like butternut squash risotto and creamy pasta. It also pairs beautifully with soft cheeses such as Brie or Camembert. Best enjoyed young for its vibrancy, though it can cellar for 4 to 6 years, developing nutty and honeyed notes.