2023 La Crema - Chardonnay Sonoma (750ml)

La Crema was founded in 1979 as La Crema Viñera in Sonoma County, built around the belief that California's cool-climate sites could rival Burgundy for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery was acquired by Jess Jackson and Barbara Banke in the early 1990s, and under their guidance it grew into one of the region's most recognized producers of Burgundian-style wines. Today the estate sources fruit from top coastal vineyards across California and Oregon, relying on small-batch, hands-on techniques to bring out the character of each site.

This Chardonnay draws on fruit grown across the Sonoma Coast AVA, a sprawling appellation stretching along the Pacific where fog and ocean wind keep temperatures cool and extend the ripening season. That slow maturation builds concentration in the grapes while preserving natural acidity. The wine is fermented and aged with restrained use of oak, giving structure and a touch of richness without masking the fruit's brightness, a style consistent with the winery's cool-climate, Burgundy-inspired approach.

On the nose, look for Meyer lemon, ripe pear, and white flowers, with a whisper of oak underneath. The palate turns toward crisp apple, golden peach, and tropical pineapple, rounding out into a texture reminiscent of graham cracker crust. Balanced acidity keeps the wine lively through a long finish. Serve it with roast chicken, buttery shellfish, or a creamy risotto.