This classic Carneros Chardonnay was grown primarily on the Schug Estate vineyard with additional barrels from the Wildcat Vineyard and Thornton Ranch. The result is a wine that is both rich and powerful, while refreshing and elegant on the finish. It has a ripe, spicy tropical bouquet with flavors that suggest citrus, pear, and spiced apples. Well-balanced acidity gives it a crisp, clean finish, making it an excellent wine with food.
Schug Carneros Estate Winery is situated on a 50-acre site in the Carneros Appellation, south-west of the town of Sonoma. Vineyards of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay surround the winery, while other grapes are bought in from highly respected and experienced growers. The Carneros District lies at the south end of both the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. An area of low hills and flatlands, the region is profoundly affected by cool marine air from the bay and the Pacific Ocean.
This Chardonnay features grapes sourced primarily from the Ricci Vineyard and our Estate vineyard, with additional barrels from the Wildcat Mountain and Sangiacomo vineyards that underwent traditional European winemaking practices. Each lot was fermented separately and aged on the lees (“sur-lie”) in small French Oak barrels, with judicious new oak introduced.
Pairs well with pork, rich fish such as salmon and tuna, vegetarian and poultry dishes.