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Chardonnay

Chardonnay Wine Details
Price: $12.00 per bottle

Description: This vintage of IL CUORE Chardonnay was produced from grapes grown exclusively in the cool coastal region of Mendocino County. Vineyards in this area invoke Chardonnays that are fresh with apple and pear flavors, complemented by floral nuances in the bouquet. A nine percent component of Viognier was blended to enhance aromas and add complexity on the palate. The fresh, graceful style of IL CUORE Chardonnay results from cold fermentation in small stainless steel vessels and small components of barrel fermentation in mostly neutral French oak cooperage. The gentle use of oak in our winemaking offers versatility with a wide range of foods. Only 2,785 cases produced.

Varietal Definition
Chardonnay:
Chardonnay is by far the most widely planted grape crop in California and dominates California’s cooler, coastal, quality wine regions. The natural varietal ‘taste and smell’ of Chardonnay is surprisingly unfamiliar to many wine drinkers, as its true character is often guised with dominating winemaking signatures. Chardonnay’s rather subdued primary fruit characteristics lean toward the crisp fruitiness of apples, pears and lemon, but the variety’s full body is capable of supporting a host of complementary characteristics, such as oak, butter and vanilla. Regardless of what is the appropriate style for Chardonnay, the varietal continues to dominate vineyard plantings in every corner of the world. Close attention to clonal selection has made this broad geographic and climactic range of Chardonnay viable in thoughtful viticultural hands.
Viognier:
The most acclaimed white wine grape from France's Rhône Valley, Viognier is a highly aromatic varietal, with a flavor profile that could include peach, apricot, nectarine, lichee, musk and flower blossom. The heady perfume of this varietal is one of its trademarks, although its flavors are sometimes problematic in matching with food. However, it does well with lobster, crab and moderately flavored fish. Use it as an apéritif as an alternative to Chardonnay. The "Rhône Rangers" in California have done an excellent job promoting this varietal.


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