2018 Robert Mondavi Chardonnay, Napa Valley

This classic Napa Valley blend is dominated by fruit from the cooler regions in the southern end of the valley, where bay fog and breezes allow the grapes to ripen at a gradual, flavor-building pace while retaining refreshing, natural acidity. A small amount of fruit from the Wappo Hill vineyard, in the Stag's Leap District, adds just the right touch of opulence to the blend, with other excellent Chardonnay vineyards giving their textures and tastes to the final wine.

The grapes were hand-harvested in the cool of the morning and gently pressed as whole clusters to conserve the vibrant, fruity flavors. All of the juice was fermented in French oak barrels (16% new). Partial malolactic fermentation balanced the lively acidity and added complexity. The wine was aged on its yeast lees (sûr lie) and was hand-stirred regularly (bâtonnage) throughout nine months of aging for seamless integration of flavors and a rich, creamy finish. The wine was bottled in August 2019.

The velvety texture of Napa Valley Chardonnay sends ribbons of juicy peach, toasty pear, rich guava, roasted pineapple, lemon peel, and hazelnut flavors across the palate into a long, mouth-watering finish. Its fruity-toasty complexity lingers luxuriously after each sip.