2023 La Crema Monterey Chardonnay, California

La Crema Monterey Chardonnay from California is a beautifully crafted wine that embodies the region’s ability to produce rich, fruit-forward wines while maintaining freshness and balance. Monterey County, known for its cool coastal breezes and diverse microclimates, offers ideal growing conditions for Chardonnay, allowing the fruit to develop vibrant flavors while retaining natural acidity. La Crema, renowned for producing wines that highlight the best of California’s terroir, has created a Chardonnay that is both elegant and approachable.

Sourced from selected Monterey vineyards, the Chardonnay is carefully hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness. The cooler temperatures of Monterey help to preserve the bright fruit flavors and crisp acidity, while the winemaking team at La Crema uses a mix of stainless steel and oak barrel fermentation to add complexity and richness to the wine. The wine is aged in French oak, with a portion undergoing malolactic fermentation to enhance its creamy texture while still maintaining a refreshing finish.

In the glass, La Crema Monterey Chardonnay has a pale golden hue, which hints at the wine’s richness and complexity. The nose is vibrant and expressive, with aromas of ripe stone fruits like peach and nectarine, complemented by citrus notes of lemon and lime. There are subtle hints of vanilla, toasted almond, and a touch of buttery richness from the oak aging, adding depth and complexity to the bouquet.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a smooth, creamy texture that is balanced by bright acidity. The fruit flavors are rich and expressive, with peach, apricot, and a touch of citrus zest leading the way. The oak aging contributes layers of vanilla, toasted almond, and a touch of spice, adding a layer of richness without overpowering the fresh fruit character. The finish is clean and refreshing, with lingering fruit and a subtle oak note that provides a satisfying aftertaste.

An incredibly food-friendly wine that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Its balance of fruit and acidity makes it an excellent match for seafood, such as grilled fish, lobster, or shrimp. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted poultry, creamy pastas, risottos, and dishes with rich, buttery sauces. For a more casual pairing, it goes beautifully with soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese.