Napa Chardonnay 2018

The Tilth Chardonnay comes from an un-named vineyard in the southeastern corner of Napa. It’s not un-named for secrecy so much as it just doesn’t have a name. Where the rolling hills meet the bay, the wind and fog keep the climate much cooler than the rest of the valley, including Carneros.

Grapes were hand-picked at 21 brix and fermented in neutral oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation is stopped to retain acidity but the barrels are stirred monthly to bring out a little of that Napa Valley mouthfeel. The Chardonnay spends 10 months in barrel before bottling. Only 150 cases were produced.

Shimmering pale straw color in the glass with aromas of Meyer Lemon and green apple. Velvety mouthfeel, flavors of lemon and dried apricot abound, followed by a finish of brioche, almond skin, and a kiss of vanilla.

Pair with a wide range of foods, from Shrimp scampi to roast chicken.