Columbia Crest 'Grand Estates' Chardonnay 2019 (Washington)

Description

• French & American oak
• Caramel
• Apple & pear
• Lively acidity

This Chardonnay opens with intense fresh fruit aromas of apples, pears, and melons, joined by signature characters of crème brulee, caramel and graham cracker. Ripe orchard fruit flavors are joined by creamy, buttery notes and balanced by lively acidity.

Fruit was sourced from vineyard sites throughout the Columbia Valley, including Yakima Valley, Horse Heaven Hills and Wahluke Slope. This region is mostly dry with less precipitation due to the rain shadow effect from the surrounding Cascade Mountain range. Vineyards are 100% drip irrigation. This, combined with the low water-holding capacity of the soil, allow for precise control of the vines.

The 2019 growing season was very similar to the most recent vintages, and crop yields were comparable to the past two vintages. The cool, early spring temperatures, along with ample soil moisture from winter precipitation and spring rainfall, delayed ripening and helped to retain fresh fruit aromatics. Rainfall was minimal from mid-May to mid-August, and temperatures were above average in July and August. Despite cold winter conditions, 2019 gave us concentrated wines with classic Washington state character.

Chardonnay grapes were pressed and the juice was allowed to settle in stainless steel tanks. The juice was placed into a combination of new and one-to-three year old American and French oak barrels for fermentation. 34% of the blend was stainless steel fermented to increase varietal aromas and enhance the wine’s overall bouquet.

Food Pairing: Crab cakes, chicken pot pie or pork tenderloins.