2023 La Crema - Chardonnay Sonoma (750ml)
La Crema was founded in 1979 in the Russian River Valley under the name La Crema Viñera, meaning "best of the vine." The winery joined the Jackson Family Wines portfolio in the early 1990s under Jess Jackson and Barbara Banke, who helped establish its focus on single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from California's coolest sites. Winemaker Craig McAllister now oversees production, applying small-batch, hands-on techniques rooted in Burgundian tradition.
The fruit for this Chardonnay comes from vineyards along the Sonoma Coast, where fog and ocean breezes keep the growing season long and cool, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly while retaining bright natural acidity. Grapes are handled gently and fermented in small lots, then given a touch of oak aging that lends structure without overwhelming the wine's fresh, fruit-driven character.
This Chardonnay opens with aromas of Meyer lemon, ripe pear, and white flowers, framed by a subtle whisper of oak. On the palate, crisp apple and juicy tangerine give way to notes of tropical pineapple, all carried by vibrant acidity through a long finish. It pairs beautifully with pan-seared halibut, roasted vegetables, or a creamy pasta dish.