2023 La Crema Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast

La Crema Chardonnay from Sonoma Coast is a hallmark expression of California’s cool-climate Chardonnay potential, crafted with precision and a long-standing commitment to quality. Since its founding in 1979, La Crema has specialised in coastal, high-elevation vineyards where fog, ocean breezes and rocky soils shape wines of finesse and freshness. The Sonoma Coast AVA, sprawling along the Pacific’s edge, delivers ideal conditions for slow, even ripening, preserving vibrant acidity while allowing flavours to develop deeply.

The fruit for this wine comes from a patchwork of estate vineyards and long-term grower partnerships across key subzones like the Petaluma Gap, Russian River Valley, and Carneros, all chosen for their fog influence and varied soils ranging from sandy loam to volcanic rock. The winemaking team, led by head winemaker Craig McAllister, handles the fruit gently, using whole-bunch pressing, wild yeast fermentations and ageing in 100 percent French oak, about a quarter of it new. Partial malolactic fermentation and regular bâtonnage build richness while preserving tension.

In the glass, it’s a golden straw colour with expressive aromas of Meyer lemon, white peach, jasmine and struck flint. The palate shows layered fruit—think grilled nectarine, lemon curd and green apple—balanced by saline minerality and a creamy yet poised texture. The oak is seamlessly integrated, offering hints of hazelnut and brioche without dominating the fruit. The finish is long, mouth-watering, and clean.

It’s a versatile white with depth and elegance, pairing beautifully with everything from roast chicken to crab cakes, miso-glazed eggplant or truffle mushroom pasta. While ready to enjoy now, it will evolve gracefully over 3 to 5 years.