Chardonnay Wine

Expert Review - Vintage 2021

Wine Spectator 92 Points | This graceful, lighter bodied Chardonnay rested in neutral French oak for 12 months after partial malo. It is brisk and tangy, with aromas and flavors of peach skins, lemon drops, chamomile, green tea and chalk. This nimble wine wants to tango, and you should accept.

Winemaker Description 

This exquisite wine, crafted from grapes harvested in both Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills, offers a delightful journey into Oregon's terroir. With a harmonious balance achieved through 12 months of aging in neutral French oak, it presents flavors of the region's ripe fruit, supported by subtle oak influence. Limited to just 200 cases, this small production showcases the artistry of winemaking and the unique qualities of this vintage.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

Year’s Best US Chardonnay - Wine & Spirits Magazine

James Suckling 94 Points | Grilled pineapple, apricot, hawthorn, burnt lime and flint on the nose. It’s medium-bodied with bright acidity and a sleek, creamy texture. Balanced, fresh and long. Beautiful expression. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink now or hold. 

Winemaker Description 

The 2019 'Dundee Hills Chardonnay' is a regional blend showcasing the best of the Dundee Hills AVA. Refined aromas of nectarines, honeysuckle, and bee pollen ascend from the glass, coalescing with notes of citrus peel. Layers upon layers of richness extend across the palate and crescendo to a seamless, persistent finish with lingering notes of lemon drop candy. 

This wine has the energy and drive to drink young or over the next decade. This wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered showing our commitment to minimal intervention winemaking. Winemaker Description. 

Expert Review

James Suckling by Andrii Stetsiuk 96 Points |  Joyful and juicy but also concentrated and very precise, this is a stunning cool-climate chardonnay. Brimming with sliced pear, white peach and white flower aromas. The delicate oak is already beautifully integrated on the mouth-filling yet only medium-bodied palate. Then comes a wave of toasted hazelnut flavor in the very long and super-silky finish. Drink from release.

Producer Description 

• 100% Chardonnay
• The Knoll, Lahoma Vineyard
• small sandstone hill
• Umbrella training system – results in more shading
• Cold soak overnight
• Fermented in 3 French oak large format puncheons
• Aged 10 months in the puncheons, stirred regularly
• 13% abv

As a Harvard educated Economist, Kelby made the unusual transition to wine in pursue of his passion. He also brought with him his deep love for music as a way to inspire his winemaking approach. For well over a decade, he patiently perfected his art while working at another winery. Finally in 2023, Kelby and his also-winemaker wife Julia, embarked on the adventure of their dreams and launched Apollo’s Praise. Despite the wait, the musical influence is as strong as it has ever been. Every bottle suggests an unusual pairing. Turn the bottle around to find a recommended song to listen to while enjoying a glass!

Kelby and Julia produce complex, yet approachable wines by carefully merging art and science. Every single one of them is the reflection of vintage variation, site specificity and unique varietal characteristics. Unsurprisingly, critics regard their highly-sought-after Lahoma Vineyard series as some of Finger Lakes’ best wines.

Apollo’s Praise philosophy in Kelby’s and Julia’s words: “The Best Wines are Art. They are an expression of culture and speak to where they come from, when they come from, and who they come from.”

Ramey Woolsey Road Vineyard Chardonnay — Russian River Valley, California 2023

Ramey Wine Cellars is one of California's most celebrated addresses for Chardonnay — founded in 1996 by David and Carla Ramey, and now co-led by the second generation, Claire and Alan. David Ramey, hailed as "Professor Chardonnay" by Wine Spectator, pioneered whole-cluster pressing, sur lies aging, malolactic fermentation, and native yeast fermentations in California. Woolsey Road is Ramey's most personal vineyard: planted by the Martinelli family at Ramey's invitation, using Old Wente cuttings sourced directly from Hyde Vineyard, and farmed by the third and fourth generations of the Martinelli family. The result is a laser-focused Chardonnay of extraordinary precision. James Suckling awarded the 2023 vintage 96 points; Wine Advocate 95.

One of the most compelling single-vineyard Chardonnays in Sonoma.

The nose is pretty and perfumed: peach, lime custard, lemongrass, green apple, golden apple, Bosc pear, pie crust, and roasted almond. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, concentrated, and sapid — rich but lively, with baking spices and youthfully flinty flavors framed by racy, citrus-driven acidity that adds real tension. The texture is seamless and long, building toward a very extended, precise finish. Drink now or hold.

James Suckling 96 — "Very pretty, fruity... then more concentrated, structured and tense on the palate. Rich but lively texture. Drink now or hold."

Wine Advocate 95 — "Exotic and perfumed... concentrated and sapid with youthfully flinty flavors. Racy acidity adds tension, and it has a very long finish."

• Producer: Ramey Wine Cellars, Healdsburg, California
• Vineyard: Woolsey Road Vineyard (Martinelli Family), Russian River Valley
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Russian River Valley AVA, Sonoma County
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay (Old Wente clone)
• Vinification: Whole-cluster pressing, native yeast fermentation, sur lies barrel aging, malolactic fermentation, unfiltered
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Peach, lime custard, lemongrass, green apple, Bosc pear, roasted almond, flinty mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or hold
• Best Paired With: Roast halibut, lobster bisque, truffle pasta, roast chicken, aged Comté, scallops

A 96-point single-vineyard Chardonnay from California's most principled Chardonnay house — Ramey Woolsey Road is the benchmark for what Russian River Valley can achieve.

Our Professional Reviews

Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer: This 100% Chardonnay comes from vineyards in the village of Mâcon-Chardonnay, one of the villages allowed to append its name to the Mâcon appellation. An outstanding fresh white with aromas of quince and white stone fruits and a delicate touch of oak. Great pairing with soft-ripened cheeses or white fish.

Bart Hopkins, 67 Wine Buyer: The 2023 Mâcon-Chardonnay is the inaugural vintage of this wine from renowned Puligny-Montrachet winemaker Alain Chavy and his son Corentin. The grapes are sourced from various growers and vinified at the family cellar in Puligny under their care and guidance. Clean and refreshing with lovely Chardonnay white fruit character and floral complexity. Medium-bodied with a nice lift of acidity on the long finish.

About the Wine

The Chavy-Martin Mâcon-Chardonnay 2023 is a standout value from Burgundy, crafted by the father-son team behind some of Puligny-Montrachet’s finest whites. This inaugural release brings premier cru-level winemaking expertise to an accessible Mâcon appellation bottling.

Tasting & Pairings

Quince, white stone fruits, floral notes, and a delicate touch of oak. Clean, refreshing, and medium-bodied with bright acidity and a long finish. Serve well chilled.

• Roasted chicken or grilled white fish — the wine’s freshness and weight are a natural match.
• Soft-ripened or creamy goat cheese — complements the stone fruit and floral character.
• Pasta with garlic-butter sauce — enough body to stand up to a light cream preparation.

Louis Jadot Chablis 2024 750ml

Louis Jadot's Chablis is a textbook expression of one of Burgundy's most distinctive appellations — pure, precise, and unmistakably mineral. Aged entirely in stainless steel to preserve the integrity of the Kimmeridgian limestone terroir, this is Chardonnay stripped of all artifice: no oak, no softening, just the raw, electric energy of Chablis.

Vineyard
Varietal: Chardonnay (100%)
Region: Chablis, Burgundy, France
Soil: Kimmeridgian limestone and clay
Viticulture: Conventional

Vinification
Fermentation: Stainless steel
Aging: No oak contact
Fining & Filtration: Light
Style: Unoaked, pure, mineral-driven

Tasting Notes
Pristine and bright on the nose — citrus zest, green apple, and white flowers with a signature chalky minerality. The palate is crisp and focused, with high natural acidity, a saline edge, and a long, clean finish. Classic Chablis in every sense.

Pair with fresh oysters, lobster, crab, fish tartare, or goat cheese.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | While this wine is currently quiet, it shows a lot of promise. Mouthwatering and long on the palate, it offers attractive citrus pith, delicate white flowers and fresh almonds.

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

Chablis achieves its highly distinctive mineral character due to its cool northerly climate and its highly calcareous soil. The Domaine Louis Moreau Petit Chablis is fresh and aromatic, with notes of apple and citrus on the nose. Bright acidity and a roundness on the palate.

Winemaker Description 

In an effort to produce a wine that pays honorable tribute to the esteemed AVA, we source our grapes from premium sites throughout the region. This blend includes several of the vineyards that have shown as standouts within the vast and rugged Sonoma Coast.

Bright and layered, the 2024 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay opens with aromas of citrus blossom, green apple, and Asian pear. On the palate, a lively core of lemon curd, crisp pineapple, and citrus zest is framed by subtle oak tones of vanilla and baking spice. The texture is both fresh and rounded, with vibrant acidity and a mineral lift that carries through to a long, clean finish.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

The Wine Advocate 94 Points | The 2022 Chardonnay Estate has open, inviting aromas of candied peaches, manuka honey, white pepper and tropical flowers. The satiny, medium-bodied palate pairs concentrated flavors and textural breadth with tangy acidity, and it has a long, flavorful finish.

Winemaker Description 

Hahn Estate S.L.H. Chardonnay — Santa Lucia Highlands 2021

Hahn Estate’s S.L.H. Chardonnay is one of California’s most compelling cool-climate expressions of the variety — and the 2021 vintage delivers with exceptional clarity and energy. Sourced from the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, one of Monterey County’s most celebrated appellations, the vineyards sit at elevations between 1,200 and 2,200 feet, where cool Pacific winds and dramatic diurnal temperature swings preserve natural acidity and build genuine complexity. The result is a Chardonnay of viscous texture, welcoming acidity, and layered fruit — earning 90 points from Wine Enthusiast and representing outstanding value at this price.

The nose is inviting and aromatic: lemon peel, lychee, wet rock, citrus, stone fruit, and hints of banana and vanilla. On the palate, it lands with clean, brisk energy — lime peel, rounded ripe melon, stone fruits, apple, and a touch of spice — with a viscous mouthfeel and a finish that is fresh, focused, and satisfying.

Wine Enthusiast 90 — “Lemon peel, lychee and wet-rock aromas converge on the nose. The palate lands with clean, brisk energy, offering flavors of lime peel with rounded, ripe melon.”

• Producer: Hahn Estate, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California, USA
• Vintage: 2021
• Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Elevation: 1,200–2,200 feet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon peel, lychee, wet rock, stone fruit, banana, vanilla, lime, ripe melon, apple, spice
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster bisque, creamy pasta, soft-ripened cheeses

Cool-climate precision at a warm-hearted price — Hahn’s S.L.H. Chardonnay is the Santa Lucia Highlands at its most approachable.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

James Suckling 92 Points |  Lemon balm, orange blossoms and lime curd on the nose. The palate is focused, with a full-bodied mouthfeel and integrated acidity, giving notes of grapefruit sherbet, graham crackers and river stones. Very well balanced and energetic.

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | Truchard's 2023 Chardonnay is loaded with scents of spicy oak, pear and melon, plus hints of citrus and sweet corn. All barrel fermented in one-third new French oak, it's medium to full-bodied, plump, rounded and generous but balanced, silky and flat-out satisfying.

The Wine Spectator 90 Points | Shows a supple, elegant mix of orange blossom and creamsicle flavors, with notes of mango, tangerine, lemon zest and dried apricot. The intensity of flavor is matched by the rich body and fresh thread of acidity. Drink now. 6,000 cases made.

Winemaker Description

Truchard Estate Chardonnay shows complex nose of pineapple, lemon, quince, and honeysuckle, with slight hints of nutmeg, fig, and toasted oak. The mouth is clean and bright, with flavors of green apple, fresh pear, and Meyer lemon. Firm acidity provides a crisp finish of citrus, mineral, and spice.

Rodney Strong California Chardonnay — Sonoma County 2024

Rodney Strong has been one of Sonoma County's most trusted names for over six decades, and their California Chardonnay is the house's benchmark for accessible, well-crafted white wine done right. The 2024 vintage was barrel-fermented at 60% and aged on lees for seven months — a technique that adds creaminess, spice, and vanilla complexity — while the remaining 40% was cold-fermented in tank to preserve the wine's bright tropical and citrus character. The result is a Chardonnay that punches well above its price point, earning 90 points from Wine Enthusiast and 88 points from Wine Spectator.

The nose opens with Gala apple, Meyer lemon peel, citrus blossom, lemon curd, and fresh herb, with hints of toasty oak and baking spice. On the palate, the wine is juicy and medium-bodied with concentrated flavors of nectarine, tangerine, pear, pineapple, and lemon curd, framed by a creamy mouthfeel, fresh sleek acidity, and a long, lingering finish of fresh pear, ginger, and vanilla. It is the kind of Chardonnay that overdelivers at every pour.

Wine Enthusiast 90 — "Lovely aromas of fresh Gala apple, Meyer lemon peel, citrus blossom, and fresh herb. The palate delivers concentrated flavors of fresh nectarine, sage, white flowers, and salty lemon at the finish." — Tom R. Capo. (Vintage 2024).

Wine Spectator 88 — "A juicy style, with notes of tangerine and lemon curd, plus a hint of lime sorbet. Fresh, sleek acidity leaves a lasting impression." — MaryAnn Worobiec. (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California
• Region: Sonoma County, California
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: 60% barrel-fermented, 7 months lees aging; 40% cold tank-fermented
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Gala apple, Meyer lemon, nectarine, tangerine, pear, pineapple, lemon curd, toasty oak, vanilla, creamy finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled asparagus, seared tuna with mango-avocado salsa, apple and brie grilled cheese, roast chicken

A 90-point California Chardonnay at an honest price — Rodney Strong's flagship white is the benchmark for what Sonoma-crafted, lees-aged Chardonnay can deliver under $15.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Decanter 92 Points | Pretty forceful, direct acidity here. Classic Chablis style. Will age. Comes from two plots situated on the left bank of the Serein, with one positioned below Montée de Tonnerre. They are fermented and kept separate before blending. Mostly hand-harvested.

Jasper Morris 91 Points | Pretty forceful, direct acidity here. Classic Chablis style. Will age. Comes from two plots situated on the left bank of the Serein, with one positioned below Montée de Tonnerre. They are fermented and kept separate before blending. Mostly hand-harvested.

Memo Notes

The 2022 growing season was warm, which gave this wine more volume and richness than the leaner 2021, but Billaud's signature precision remains intact.

• Aroma: Classic "Kimmeridgian" mineral notes of crushed chalk and seashell, followed by yellow plum, white flowers, and a hint of beeswax.

• Palate: Vibrant and electric. Expect a core of lemon zest, green apple, and white peach. The texture is slightly creamy from the lees aging but is driven by a distinct saline (salty) streak.
• 
  

  Finish: Long, dry, and exceptionally clean, with a lingering flinty finish.

  Memo Pairing Notes

• The Gold Standard: Fresh oysters on the half shell or chilled crab claws. 

  • Main Courses: Grilled sea bass with lemon and herbs, or a creamy mushroom risotto.

  • Cheese: Goat cheese (Chèvre) or a light, nutty Comté.

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

The skills and know-how at Prosper Maufoux have been at the service of a wide range of Burgundian appellations since 1860. Whether they are regional appellations or Grand Crus, the firm remains equally exacting in terms of vine tending techniques, grape quality, vinification and maturing; always aiming at getting the very best from each terroir.

VINIFICATION

Direct Press – Thanks to our pneumatic presses, we carry out slow pressing. Only the first presses of our highest quality batches are selected for the final blend. Malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Second fermentation and ageing : The second fermentation, which takes place inside the bottle, is generated by the addition of yeasts and sugar. The wines are then aged on their lees between 12 and 15 months.

VARIETALS: 40% Chardonnay ; 40% Pinot Noir and 20% Gamay
APPELLATION: AOC Crémant de Bourgogne – Traditional Method Sparkling Wines
ALCOHOL: 12.0%

TASTING NOTES

COLOR: Pale gold color
AROMA: The nose is fruity with notes of exotic fruits and citrus.
FLAVOR: Expresses white flowers and pastries.

Discover Domaine Leflaive's Exquisite Biodynamic Wines

Discover the exquisite quality of Domaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet Biodynamic 2023, the crown jewel from one of Burgundy's most prestigious estates. Established in the heart of Burgundy, this family-owned domaine has gained international acclaim for producing some of the finest white wines in the world. With a thoughtful approach to sustainability and commitment to biodynamic farming, Domaine Leflaive effortlessly blends tradition with innovation, ensuring every bottle is a true representation of the unique terroir of Puligny-Montrachet.

Expert Recognition

Wine Spectator - 92 Points
"Pure and silky in texture, revealing lemon, apple, mineral and oak spice flavors. Seamless and balanced, with lively acidity guiding the lingering aftertaste of citrus, orchard fruit and spices. Drink now through 2030."

2,715 cases made, 543 cases imported

Tasting Profile

This exceptional wine presents a brilliant golden hue that hints at the richness within. Pure and silky in texture, the palate reveals seamless flavors of lemon, apple, mineral, and oak spice. The wine bursts with ripe peach, zesty citrus, and subtle floral notes, complemented by a delicate minerality that typifies this celebrated region. Lively acidity guides the experience, creating a refreshing brightness while the oak barrels add complexity and sophistication. The finish is lingering and memorable, with citrus, orchard fruit, and spices that beckon for another taste. It's an elegant expression of biodynamic heritage and Burgundian excellence.

Biodynamic Excellence

Domaine Leflaive is renowned for its pioneering biodynamic practices, supporting environmental stewardship while enhancing the flavor profile of their wines. This thoughtful approach to organic farming not only respects the land but creates wines with greater complexity, purity, and authentic expression of terroir. The 2023 vintage showcases the harmonious balance achieved through these sustainable methods, making it a must-try for any avid wine enthusiast who values both quality and environmental responsibility.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This wine's bright acidity and intricate flavors make it ideal for pairing with:

• Grilled scallops or pan-seared sole
• Fresh oysters and shellfish
• Roasted chicken or poultry
• Creamy cheeses like Brie or Comté
• Herbaceous salads with citrus vinaigrette
• Sautéed vegetables with butter

Serving & Cellaring

Serve slightly chilled (10-12°C / 50-54°F) to fully appreciate its complexity and allow the aromas and characteristics to emerge. Drink now through 2030 for optimal enjoyment. Whether for a special occasion or an elevated dining experience, this exquisite white wine from Domaine Leflaive is sure to impress connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

Chateau Montelena · Chardonnay · Napa Valley · California · 2023 · 750ml

On May 24, 1976, Chateau Montelena's Chardonnay changed the wine world forever. In a blind tasting judged by a who’s-who of French food and wine critics — now known as the Judgment of Paris — it took first place over Burgundy’s most celebrated whites, announcing California as a serious fine wine region to a skeptical world. Nearly fifty years later, the Montelena Chardonnay remains the benchmark: a wine of extraordinary precision, minerality, and longevity that has never chased trends or compromised its identity. Winemaker Matt Crafton has described the 2023 vintage as one of the best in the last decade — a cool, mild growing season that produced wines of exceptional tension, acidity, and aging potential. At $69.99, this is a piece of California wine history in every bottle.

Brilliant pale gold in the glass with a vivid, pure nose of Meyer lemon, citrus blossom, white peach, and oyster shell minerality — linear, precise, and utterly compelling. On the palate: lush pear, lime leaf, orange blossom, and flinty minerals, with bright, racy acidity that gives the wine extraordinary shape and drive. Marcona almond notes add depth and texture through a long, elegant finish. Decanter called it “vivid, pure citrus expression with a mineral character… crisp, crunchy acidity provides shape and drive.” Winemaker Matt Crafton notes the mouthfeel is “just gorgeous with more gravitas and weight than I would have expected.” Drink now through 2035+, or cellar for a decade to watch it fully unfold. Pair with lobster, roast halibut, Dover sole, or aged Comté.

• Producer: Chateau Montelena · Winemaker Matt Crafton
• Wine: Chardonnay · Napa Valley
• Vintage: 2023
• Origin: Napa Valley, California
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Precise, mineral, age-worthy Napa Chardonnay
• Certifications: Sustainable
• Notable: 1976 Judgment of Paris — 1st Place
• Press: Decanter — “Vivid, pure citrus expression with a mineral character”
• Drinking Window: Now–2035+
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Meyer lemon, citrus blossom, pear, lime leaf, orange blossom, flinty minerals, Marcona almond, long elegant finish
• Pair With: Lobster · Roast halibut · Dover sole · Aged Comté

The wine that won the Judgment of Paris — Napa Chardonnay at its most precise and enduring.

Stags’ Leap Winery Chardonnay — Napa Valley 2023

Stags’ Leap Winery is one of Napa Valley’s most storied estates — a historic property in the Stags Leap District whose winemaking legacy stretches back to the 19th century. Their Napa Valley Chardonnay draws from two of the valley’s finest cool-climate sites: Carneros and Oak Knoll, both influenced by the marine air of San Pablo Bay, which moderates temperatures and preserves the natural acidity and aromatic precision that define this style. The 2023 vintage was one of the most prolonged and compact harvests in recent Napa history — a long growing season delayed harvest until September 5th, two and a half weeks later than the prior year, producing fruit of intense color, complex flavors, and vibrant acidity. The wine is partially barrel-fermented and matured, with the balance in stainless steel, and includes 1% Viognier for an added lift of floral perfume.

The color is a glorious shimmering gold. The nose is bright and lively: lemon crème, white pineapple, melon, Asian pear, citrus blossom, and magnolia flowers, with spiced oak notes of vanilla, brioche toast, and ginger adding warmth and complexity. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, silky, and balanced — Golden Delicious apple, lemon curd, and ripe pear framed by a creamy texture, exotic floral notes, and a long, satisfying finish with hints of lychee and beautiful mineral character. A solid, well-priced Napa Chardonnay with genuine elegance.

Wine Advocate 89 — “Crushed stone, pear, melon and citrus. Medium to full-bodied, silky and balanced — a solid effort at a fair price for Napa.” (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Stags’ Leap Winery, Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Sources: Carneros & Oak Knoll
• Varietal: 99% Chardonnay, 1% Viognier
• Vinification: Partial barrel fermentation and maturation, balance in stainless steel
• Style: Silky, balanced, floral Napa Valley Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon crème, pineapple, melon, Asian pear, vanilla, brioche, lychee, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, lobster, crab, creamy pasta, soft-ripened cheeses, scallops

Napa Valley Chardonnay with genuine elegance and a storied address — Stags’ Leap Winery 2023 delivers at every pour.

Patz & Hall Sonoma County Chardonnay — Sonoma County 2022

Patz & Hall is one of California’s most celebrated Chardonnay specialists, renowned for sourcing from the finest cool-climate vineyards across Sonoma County and crafting wines of exceptional richness, precision, and site expression. The Sonoma County Chardonnay is the house’s benchmark blend — drawing from multiple premier vineyard sources to deliver a wine of generous intensity, layered complexity, and the signature Patz & Hall balance between opulence and freshness. The 2022 vintage earned 93 points from Wine Spectator and 92 from James Suckling, making it one of the most acclaimed California Chardonnays at this price point.

The nose is ripe, generous, and captivating: peach, apricot, mango, toasted coconut, crème anglaise, tangerine, orange blossom, and a drizzle of wildflower honey. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a rounded, delicately creamy texture — golden apple, candied citrus, caramel, lemon curd, honeysuckle, and melon rind are lifted by fresh acidity and a subtle saline flourish. The finish is long and persistent, with hints of shortbread and grilled pineapple that linger beautifully.

Wine Spectator 93 — “Ripe, succulent peach, apricot and mango flavors are generous and juicy, with notes of toasted coconut, crème anglaise and wildflower honey. The intensity persists on the finish, with hints of shortbread and grilled pineapple.”

James Suckling 92 — “Aromas of golden apples, pears, butterscotch, hazelnuts and lemon cream. Flavors of candied citrus, caramel and green apples. A stylized yet polished wine.”

Jeb Dunnuck 90 — “Ripe and aromatic with aromas of lemon curd, honeysuckle, wet stones, and melon rind. Medium to full-bodied richness with a rounded, delicately creamy texture and a subtle flourish of saline. A charming and well-detailed wine.”

• Producer: Patz & Hall, Sonoma County, California, USA
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Sonoma County AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Peach, apricot, mango, toasted coconut, crème anglaise, honey, golden apple, lemon curd, caramel, saline, shortbread finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Lobster, roast halibut, crab cakes, roast chicken with cream sauce, soft-ripened cheeses

Three critics, three scores of 90+, one exceptional Sonoma Chardonnay — Patz & Hall is the benchmark California white that always delivers.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

Jasper Morris 92-94 Points | Mid lemon. A little more stuffing than the very agreeable Chenevottes, digging deep into fresh yellow fruit, some citrus rind, good acidity, and a particularly appealing intense crisp white fruit finish. Old vines count! 

Neal Martin writes:  The 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet Les Champs Gain 1er Cru has a touch more mineralité on the nose compared to the Les Chenevottes, touches of gypsum and oyster shell intermingling with light white linen scents. The palate is very well balanced and beautifully poised, with entrancing white peach and nectarine notes toward the irresistible finish. Yes, yes, yes!  Drinking 2025 to 2048.  - Vinous 93-95

William Kelley writes: Aromas of citrus zest, peach and pear, mingled with hints of white flowers, hazelnuts and fresh bread, preface the 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Champs Gain, a medium to full-bodied, satiny and nicely concentrated wine with a bright spine of acidity and a mouthwateringly chalky finish. This looks to be Colin's best Champs Gain since 2017.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 91-93

Winemaker Description 

Founded in 1970 by Marc Colin and his wife Michele, Domaine Marc Colin now spans 15 hectares encompassing 26 appellations in St. Aubin, Chassagne, Puligny, and Santenay. Most of the land was inherited from past generations of Colin and Ponavoy; certain parcels have been in the family for more than 100 years. While the family does own prime territory in Chassagne, home base in St. Aubin features parcels of the very best vineyards, En Remilly and Chatenière, to name a few. These vineyards accrue prestige due to their sloped location; while much of St. Aubin resides on flat ground (rendering less interesting wines) the Colin properties are all situated on finely pitched hillsides. The resulting wines shimmer with savory minerality and luster.

Today Joseph, Caroline, and Damien, the children of Marc and Michele, own and run the domaine. The fourth sibling Pierre-Yves (who made the wine at Marc Colin for 10 years) established his own project in 2005. Sustainable and organic agriculture, older vines, and clay-limestone soils are just some of the components contributing to the quality of the final product. Winemaking style would best be called traditional, though Joseph (who makes the whites) and Damien (who makes the reds) are certainly not shy of innovation. Whites strive for optimum freshness; there is no heavy, ungainly wood here. The red wines are characterized by silky texture, ever-present fruit and a certain roundness with just a kiss of oak. Production consists of 70% white and 30% red with total production maxing out at 120,000 bottles.

Alfred Gratien Champagne Classic Brut — Champagne, France NV

Alfred Gratien is one of Champagne's most principled and independent houses — still fermenting in small oak casks, still hand-riddling, still refusing shortcuts. Their Classic Brut is the house's calling card: a blend of 50% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir, and 25% Pinot Meunier, based on the 2015 harvest, crafted for depth, texture, and longevity. Both James Suckling and Wine Spectator awarded it 93 points. At $59.99, it is one of the most compelling values in serious Champagne.

The nose is moderately intense and complex: sweet pastry, biscuit, dried apple, orchard fruit, citrus, white flowers, and fresh butter. On the palate, the texture is silky and layered — ripe yellow peach, raspberry, chopped hazelnut, pickled ginger, and preserved lemon, all framed by chiseled acidity and a satiny mousse. A chalky minerality runs through the wine from start to finish. The finish is crisp, long (6–8 seconds), and beautifully balanced — with a pleasing sugar component that never tips into sweetness.

James Suckling 93 — "Fantastic NV Champagne with a fine, creamy texture of small barrels and a deep, layered palate... Tangy. Layered and powerful, yet fresh."

Wine Spectator 93 — "Finely meshed and mouthwatering, with a satiny mousse and creamy finish."

• Producer: Alfred Gratien, Épernay, Champagne, France
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Blend: 50% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir, 25% Pinot Meunier
• Base Vintage: 2015
• Style: Brut, Non-Vintage
• Vinification: Small oak cask fermentation, hand-riddled
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Brioche, dried apple, orchard fruit, peach, raspberry, hazelnut, chalky mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or hold
• Best Paired With: Oysters, roast chicken, aged Comté, smoked salmon, mushroom risotto

A dual 93-point Champagne from one of the region's most uncompromising houses — Alfred Gratien Classic Brut is the benchmark for what independent Champagne can be.

Expert Review — Vintage 2021

Vinous 92 Points | A blend of Chardonnay, Welschriesling and Sauvignon Blanc from the younger vines of the estate (~15 years old). Gentle nuttiness and a touch of tatami mat on the nose, very subtle and calm. With air, a hint of butter emerges. The palate is all clarity, all lightness and all brightness on a super-slender frame that is soothing and smooth. Bone-dry.

About the Wine

Velich Tó White takes its name from the Hungarian word for "lake" — a nod to the estate’s proximity to Neusiedlersee in Burgenland, Austria. The Tó cuvée is sourced from the estate’s younger vines (15–25 years old) and blends Chardonnay, Welschriesling, and Sauvignon Blanc into a wine of remarkable purity and restraint.

Velich is one of Burgenland’s most respected producers, known for precision winemaking and a deep connection to terroir.

Tasting & Pairings

Gentle nuttiness, tatami mat, butter, orchard fruit, and citrus. Super-slender, bone-dry, and soothing with bright clarity and a smooth finish. Serve well chilled.

• Seafood — oysters, ceviche, or grilled branzino — the wine’s slender frame and acidity are ideal.
• Roasted chicken with herbs — the subtle nuttiness and butter notes complement poultry beautifully.
• Soft-ripened cheese or fresh burrata — the bone-dry finish cleanses the palate between bites.

Tasting Notes

Our LIGHT Chardonnay is a fresh yet soft style with subtle hints of oak that give the wine a sweet finish. With flavors of lemon, apple, ripe apricot and offering a guilt free indulgence without compromising on taste or quality.

Naturally lower sugars yield less alcohol allowing our winemakers to achieve 9% ABV with minimal alcohol extraction post fermentation.

Wine Analysis

• Blend: 100% Chardonnay
• Winemaking Notes: Fermented and aged in combination of stainless steel and neutral American oak. 100% malolactic
• TA: 0.58g/100mL
• PH: 3.48
• Average analysis per 5 oz: 80 calories, 2.1g carbs, 0g protein, 0g fat, gluten free
• Alcohol: 9.0%

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Stunning and sleek, with intensity and precision to the citrus, pear and white peach flavors. Offers notes of orange blossom and jasmine, with notes of fresh-cut Fuji apple and buttery shortbread on the mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2034. 300 cases imported.

James Suckling 93 Points | A sleek, mid-weighted & very contemporary chardonnay, embellishing a pungent mineral chassis with roasted cashew, nougat and curdy creaminess. Vanilla-cedar oak, an integrated framework. Apricot pith, white peach and nectarine, too. The acidity, palpably natural of feel and really juicy, towing impressive length. One of the better recent iterations of this rightly popular cuvee. 

The Australian Wine Companion 93 Points | A sleek, mid-weighted & highly contemporary chardonnay, embellishing a pungent mineral chassis with roasted cashew, nougat and curdy creaminess. Vanilla-cedar oak, an integrated framework. Apricot pith, white peach and nectarine, too. The acidity, palpably natural of feel and really juicy, towing impressive length. Among the better recent iterations of this rightly popular cuvée.

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | The 2022 M3 Chardonnay is nutty and spiced on the nose, with green apple, crushed cashews, citrus rind and brine. The wine is, true to form, polished, sleek and flavorsome. This is a bit of a cherished wine in Australia; it is reliable and classy, and this vintage is no exception. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

Memo Pairing Suggestions 

Food Pairings: Pairs beautifully with roasted chicken with thyme, grilled scallops in lemon butter, or creamy pasta primavera.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

The Wine Enthusiast 94 Points | This is the flagship Chardonnay produced by Domaine Anderson. It is a glimpse into the winemaking style of the house, highlighting the cool climate, sunshine and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The nose conveys pithy apple, youthful nectarine and butterscotch candy. The palate intensifies these notes, along with high acidity, minerals, cinnamon and a mouthwatering finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | Made from estate-grown, certified organic vineyards, including three single-vineyard designates (Navarro-Fairhills, Walraven, and Dach), the 2021 Chardonnay Estate is a light-bodied white that is tangy in acidity and fresh citrus notes, expertly showcasing both the cool-climate region and coolness of the vintage, one of the earliest harvests on record in the Anderson Valley. Meyer lemon and a twist of lime highlight the aromatic profile, with more lemon developing on the palate as a nice complement to the green and Golden Delicious apple flavors.

The Wine Spectator 91 Points | With sleek notes of lemon, pear and yuzu alongside racy acidity, this pops out of the glass, finding wonderful harmony with the grace notes of white pepper and vanilla custard, plus a hint of salted butter shortbread on the finish. Drink now. 1,000 cases made.

Winemaker Description 

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | Under screw cap, the De Wetshof Estate 2024 Robertson Limestone Hill Chardonnay offers a simple delivery of citrus, pomelo and wild sage. The wine focuses on brightness and is extremely drinkable, but perhaps it's a little less complex compared to all the other very different Chardonnays in this portfolio. You get a pretty note of latex or natural rubber, which I really like. This wine is unoaked, and that's what sets it apart.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The colour is a beautiful pale gold with green highlights. The nose is floral and elegant, with hints of ibiscus and pleasant apricot. The palate is rich and smooth, with aromas of creamy caramel and a magnificent mineral and saline finish.

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

NOW by Paxton stands for 'Natural Organic Wine.' As leaders in organic production, Paxton wanted to create a Biodynamic and USDA Certified Organic natural wine with no added preservatives in a young, drink 'now' style of Chardonnay.

A fruit salad of native finger lime, pear d'Anjou, with wild spearmint, elderflower and a touch of tarragon. Bright and bouncy like jumping for the clouds on a backyard trampoline. This Chardonnay sits up straight but has a sneaky scrumptious and vibrant feel once allowed to relax. Drink NOW.

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

Tim Atkin MW 92 Points | Kara-Tara is Stark-Condé winemaker Rudger van Wyk’s own project, entirely focused on Burgundian grapes. This stylish Chardonnay marries grapes from Elgin, the Overberg and Paarl. Poised between citrus and stone fruit flavours, with subtle toast and wet stone undertones. 2022-27′.

Producer Description 

Kara-Tara is a joint-venture between Rüdger van Wyk (2018 Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year) and José Conde of Stark-Condé Wines. Translated from the Khoisan, the language from the first people in Southern Africa, it means “deep dark shadows” and refers to the Karatara river that runs through Rüdger’s home town, near Knysna which is located in South Africa, on the Cape South Coast, facing the Indian Ocean.

This wine has the classic notes of lemon and grapefruit you’d expect from Chardonnay, with hints of almond and a fine mineral finish.

Winemaker Description 

The Bourgogne Blanc from Domaine Leflaive has the particularity to only come from vineyards located in the town of Puligny, making it easily one of the best Bourgogne Blanc you could get your hands on. This is the perfect first step into the Domaine Leflaive’s unique offerings. All vineyards are farmed biodynamically. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2022 

Allen Meadows of Burhound | A very pretty nose freely reveals its aromas of apple, pear and lemon rind. The succulent, delicious and appealingly vibrant middleweight flavors possess a relatively refined texture while displaying fine depth and length for a wine of this level. The 20% addition of young vines from upper-level vineyards clearly helps and overall, this is excellent.

Producer Description 

A blend of five of our favorite Russian River Valley vineyard sites, this Chardonnay captures the fantastic character of the 2021 vintage. Fusing fresh lemon and white floral aromas with a throughline of minerality, this versatile Chardonnay is simultaneously easygoing and complex.  

Peak Drinking Window: 2023 – 2029. 

98 Points, James Suckling
94 Points, Jeb Dunnuck 
90 Points, Wine Spectator

Expert Review

James Suckling 98 Points | Extremely focused and energetic nose of sliced limes and Meyer lemons with lemongrass. Some stone and hints of flint. Full-bodied with superb density and structure and phenolics that you can feel. It goes on for minutes. Slightly chewy at the end. From Wente clones planted in 1974. (v.2021). 

RouteStock · Chardonnay · Sonoma Coast · California · 2024 · 750ml

RouteStock is a Sonoma-based label built around a simple idea: source from the best sites, let the fruit speak, and keep the price honest. The Sonoma Coast Chardonnay draws from two consistent vineyard sources — one in the Petaluma Gap AVA, known for its cool, wind-driven conditions and naturally high acidity, and one located just 1.5 miles from the Pacific coast, where the marine influence is felt in every cluster. The result is a Chardonnay that leans into freshness and precision rather than weight and oak — bright, complex, and genuinely food-friendly. Sealed with a screw cap to preserve every bit of that coastal aromatics. At $23.99, this is Sonoma Coast Chardonnay at a price that makes it a weeknight staple.

Brilliant light straw in the glass with a beguiling, aromatic nose of Gravenstein apple, wild sage, Meyer lemon, and a lift of lemongrass — unmistakably Chardonnay, unmistakably coastal. On the palate: bright and racy, with a beautiful array of apple, tarragon, toasted nuts, and lemongrass, carried by a lovely richness that stays fresh and lifted through a long, lingering finish. Complex, inviting, and vibrant from first pour to last. Pair with roast chicken, grilled halibut, pasta with cream sauce, or a simple plate of soft cheeses.

• Producer: RouteStock Wines · Sonoma, California
• Wine: Chardonnay · Sonoma Coast
• Vintage: 2024
• Origin: Petaluma Gap AVA & Coastal Sonoma, California
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Bright, fresh, coastal California Chardonnay
• Closure: Screw Cap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Gravenstein apple, wild sage, Meyer lemon, lemongrass, tarragon, toasted nuts, long lingering finish
• Pair With: Roast chicken · Grilled halibut · Cream pasta · Soft cheeses · Aperitif

Petaluma Gap precision, Pacific coast freshness — Sonoma Chardonnay the way it should taste.

Memo Summary Notes 

The Domaine Leflaive Mâcon-Verzé "Les Chênes" 2023 is a prestigious biodynamic white Burgundy that serves as an entry point into the world of the most famous Chardonnay producer on earth. While Leflaive’s Grand Crus from Puligny-Montrachet fetch thousands, their Mâcon-Verzé wines are crafted with the same biodynamic rigor and technical precision by the same winemaking team.

The "Les Chênes" (The Oaks) is a specific vineyard within the Mâcon-Verzé appellation known for its older vines (some planted in 1935) and south-facing exposure, which produces a wine with more structure and "toasty" complexity than their standard Mâcon-Verzé.

    •    Food Pairing: Its mineral precision and creamy finish make it perfect for butter-poached lobster, grilled scallops, or a rich vegetable tart.

    •    Cheese: Pairs exceptionally well with Chèvre (goat cheese) or a younger Comté.

Winemaker Description 

Clay-limestone terroir with little depth before reaching the bedrock. Gentle to very steep slopes. Surface area: 3.43 ha located in the heart of the Verzé valley, "Les Chênes" comprises two south-west-facing parcels.

The vines are cultivated biodynamically.

Harvesting is entirely manual, and pressing is carried out in Verzé. After decanting, the musts are transported daily to Puligny- Montrachet for fermentation and ageing, under the watchful eye of Domaine Leflaive's technical team. Vinification takes place in vats, and ageing lasts from 15 to 16 months.
Pressing: Long, gentle pneumatic pressing, 24-hour decanting followed by settling.
Fermentation: 55% in stainless steel tanks, 42% in cement tanks and 3% in new oak barrels.

Ageing: After 10 months' ageing on lees in fermentation containers, the wine is racked into stainless steel tanks and aged on fine lees for 6 months. Winemaker Description. 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

89-92 points Jasper Morris |  Fresh pale lemon. The bouquet has a little more refinement than the St-Aubin, offering apple, fennel and citrus notes. Clean, lean and pure on the nose, extremely refreshing. While there is little reduction on the nose, the finish has a lively mineral limestone feeling. Drink from 2025-2028. 

88-90 points Burghound | Bright and fresh aromas of resin, petrol and lemon zest introduce slightly bigger and richer though less mineral-driven flavors that are at once generous but reasonably precise on the lingering and agreeably dry finale. This relatively forward effort could use better depth so I would suggest holding it for a few years first. 

88-90 points Wine Advocate | The 2021 Chassagne-Montrachet Cuvée Margot reveals aromas of peach, freshly baked bread, oatmeal and spices, followed by a medium to full-bodied, ample palate with a fleshy core of fruit, lively acids and a slightly lactic finish.