This week’s wine of the week is a fresh representation of one of the top Chardonnay producing regions in California.
California Chardonnay conjures up so many emotions in wine folks around the world. Some may even argue that you either love it or hate it. But it’s not that simple…
When you hear “California Chardonnay,” you may think of a liquid reminiscent of a lemon butterball with a side of heavy baking spice. This is usually what causes all the commotion, as it is this version of Chardonnay that is at the heart of the cliché. However, there is wine, lots of wine, outside the buttery California Chardonnay bubble.
Gary Farrell Vinyards & Winery is a classic winery located on the winding Westside Road near the town of Healdsburg in Sonoma County. The property with the winery and tasting room offers stunning views of the surrounding rolling hills and mountains in the distance, hiding the cold Pacific Ocean. This picturesque landscape is part of the Russian River Valley AVA, and it is responsible for the ideal growing conditions for cooler climate grapes. Some of the top Pinot Noir and Chardonnay coming out of California is produced in this area, and it is here where Gary Farrell’s Director of Winemaking, Theresa Heredia, makes her wines.
Not Your Mother’s California Chardonnay
Theresa values a sense of place expressed in her wines, as the grapes come from single vineyard sites around the area; each having its own unique combination of soil, climate, and farming. Many of these sites have been the vineyards for wines of recognition over the years, and they continue to produce the best fruit around.
A more “Burgundian” approach to style sets Theresa apart from much of the heavy-handed winemaking that California can be known for. Her process of picking the grapes early gives her wines ample acidity leading to crisp freshness across the line. There is no flabbiness in this Chardonnay, nor is there in any of the wines produced at Gary Farrell.
The 2019 Russian River Selection Chardonnay is a prime example of the quality of Sonoma County fruit, sourced from several vineyard sites, complemented by the structure that can be crafted by thoughtful winemaking. It is rounded and rich but also refreshing and crisp, with layers of Meryer lemon, citrus fruit, pear, and brioche. Light on the oak, but still with a signature touch of spice completing the profile.
Sip on the patio throughout a warm evening, or pair perfectly with white fish made with a simple lemon butter caper sauce.
Gary Farrell’s Russian River Selection Chardonnay can be purchased for $42 at Mr. D Wine Merchant in Miami, as well as at select Total Wine stores.
View more Wine of the Week selections by visiting our “Wine” page.
Jacqueline is a professional wine + travel writer, radio host, wine columnist, and consultant based in Miami, FL.
She is the monthly “Vino” columnist for Biscayne Times newspaper, a guest host covering the drinks segment on Linda Gassenheimer’s podcast show, “Food, News, and Views,” and Star Wine List’s Miami Ambassador.
Jacqueline is a Certified Sherry Wine Specialist & WSET 3.
