Chardonnay Wine

Jean-Paul Brun · Terres Dorées · Beaujolais Blanc · 2024

100% Chardonnay | Organically farmed | Beaujolais, France | 750ml

At his home estate in Charnay in southern Beaujolais, Jean-Paul Brun planted Chardonnay in 1983 on sandy, limestone-rich clay soils. Organic farming and hand harvesting set the foundation for this unoaked white, fermented with natural yeasts and aged in steel and concrete tanks.

Peach, apricot, and lemon zest lead into white-fruit flavors, juicy lime, orange blossom, and subtle herbal notes. Malolactic fermentation and periodic lees stirring lend texture, while a long, chalky finish keeps the wine focused and fresh.

Expert Review · Vintage 2024 

Wine Enthusiast, 91 Points | Supple aromas of white peach, honeydew melon, and Bosc pear open on the nose, alongside dew-dusted forest floor and hay. Slightly creamy in texture, the wine elevates rounded orchard fruit followed by a tinge of lemon zest on the finish.

Winemaker Description

Winery Notes | Jean-Paul Brun's Chardonnay comes from 35 year-old vines grown on sandy clay and limestone soils in the southern Beaujolais and is raised in stainless steel (no oak). Bright aromas of peach, apricot, lemon zest, and thyme lead to flavors of pure white fruits, juicy lime, crisp orange blossom, subtle herbal undertones, and a long chalky finish.

Pairing & Serving

Serve chilled. Suggested pairings include roast chicken, grilled fish, vegetable quiche, or fresh goat cheese.

Wine Details

• Producer: Jean-Paul Brun, Terres Dorées
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Beaujolais Blanc
• Country: France
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Farming: Organic
• Harvest: By hand
• Fermentation: Natural yeasts; malolactic fermentation
• Aging: Steel and concrete tanks, with periodic lees stirring
• Oak: None
• Size: 750ml

Expert Ratings

Matthew Luczy writes:  Sourced from the limestone soils of Talinay Vineyard, the 2023 Cordillera Chardonnay is a lovely example of the transparent vibrancy possible in Chardonnay from the coastal sections of Limarí. Opening with a medley of orchard fruits, citrus and floral accents, the palate is clean and precise, with a touch of waxy breadth that provides additional staying power through the mouthwatering finish.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 92

Producer Description 

Fresh, fruity aroma dominated by peach, white plum, and grapefruit notes, with touches of toasted hazelnut. Mineral on the palate, with plenty of volume, elegant acidity and lasting rich fruity aromas, ending with a fresh, pleasant aftertaste.

Gundlach Bundschu | Chardonnay | Sonoma Coast AVA | 2024 | Organically Grown

Wine Enthusiast: 90 Points — Soft and charming aromas of Meyer lemon, green pear, chalky minerality and spice mélange. The palate brings a pop of fresh acidity, with flavors of apple skin, nectarine, pineapple sage and citrus blossoms through the meandering finish. —Tom R. Capo

Gundlach Bundschu is one of California's oldest continuously family-owned wineries, founded in 1858 and farming the same Rhinefarm estate vineyard at the crossroads of Sonoma Valley and Carneros for six generations. Today the estate is Regenerative Organic Certified®, a commitment that goes beyond conventional organic farming to encompass soil health, ecosystem restoration and long-term land stewardship. The Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is sourced from cool-climate vineyards along the Pacific-influenced Sonoma Coast AVA, where marine fog and ocean breezes extend the growing season and preserve the natural acidity and freshness that define the appellation's best whites.

The 2024 is vinified to balance the variety's natural richness with the bright, mineral-driven character of the Sonoma Coast. The nose opens with crisp green apple, Meyer lemon and ripe pear, accented by chalky minerality, honey and a whisper of spice. The palate is lively and well structured, with flavors of nectarine, preserved lemon peel, pineapple sage and citrus blossom, carried by bright acidity and a subtle touch of oak through a clean, lingering finish.

Serve at 50–54°F. Pairs beautifully with chicken piccata, roasted squash, grilled fish, shellfish, light pasta with cream or herb sauces and fresh cheeses.

• Producer: Gundlach Bundschu
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA, California
• Grape Variety: Chardonnay (100%)
• Vintage: 2024
• Farming: Organically grown; Regenerative Organic Certified®
• Estate: Rhinefarm, founded 1858
• Style: Dry white wine
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Granville · Basalt Chardonnay · Willamette Valley · 2021

A graceful, lighter-bodied Oregon Chardonnay with brisk citrus, delicate orchard fruit, and a chalky mineral edge. The supplied 2021 review describes a nimble, tangy wine with peach-skin and lemon-drop flavors, accented by chamomile and green tea.

Producer & Terroir

Granville’s Basalt Chardonnay draws on grapes from both the Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills. The supplied winemaker description notes a production of just 200 cases, offering a small-production expression of these two Willamette Valley growing areas.

Tasting & Winemaking

Twelve months in neutral French oak provide a subtle oak influence without overwhelming the fruit. The existing review also notes partial malolactic fermentation, alongside a light-bodied profile and brisk, tangy character.

Expert Review · 2021 Vintage

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

Granville | 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.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Try with grilled fish, seared scallops, lemon-roasted chicken, or a fresh goat cheese salad. Serve chilled and allow a little time in the glass for the fruit and herbal aromatics to open.

Wine Details

• Producer: Granville
• Cuvée: Basalt Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2021
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Region: Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Grape sources: Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills
• Country: United States
• Aging: 12 months in neutral French oak
• Malolactic fermentation: Partial, per the supplied review
• Production: 200 cases, per the winemaker description
• Size: 750ml

A lively Willamette Valley Chardonnay for the table, with delicate fruit and a refreshing mineral accent.

Tasting Notes

1848 Winery's 2nd Generation Chardonnay is an unoaked expression that lets the fruit speak for itself. Expect a fresh, clean palate with notes of green apple, citrus, and white peach, balanced by lively acidity and a crisp, refreshing finish — a versatile Kosher white that pairs effortlessly with any table.

About the Wine

Crafted by 1848 Winery, one of Israel's storied producers, the 2nd Generation series honors the tradition of Kosher winemaking while embracing a modern, approachable style. Unoaked and food-friendly, this Chardonnay is a go-to for everyday enjoyment and festive occasions alike, including Passover.

Food Pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled fish, light poultry, salads, and soft cheeses. An excellent choice for Shabbat and holiday tables.

Product Details

• Appellation: Israel
• Varietal: Chardonnay (Unoaked)
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Certification: Kosher, Kosher for Passover
• Producer: 1848 Winery

Expert Review — Vintage 2021

Decanter 96 Points (Clive Pursehouse) | "Quite the Chardonnay from Brianne Day and the renowned Eola Springs Vineyard in the best Chardonnay appellation in America." Three different blocks and three different clones: Hyde Wente, Mount Eden, and Dijon 96. Captivating lemon curd aromas and rich, honeyed apricots followed by almond pastry cream — dollops of rich lemon cream, ripe peach fuzz, and rich apricot flesh.

Winemaker Notes

Brianne Day chose three blocks and three clones from the gorgeous Eola Springs Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills to get to know the site intimately. Hyde Wente and Mount Eden (California heritage clones) were picked earlier for structure and acid; Dijon 96 was picked later for stone fruit and riper character.

The result is lively, lithe, and built on a solid mineral structure with a supple, glossy mid-palate. Lemon curd, peaches, river stones, lime zest, sweet orange, honeysuckle, and a hint of pastry all come to mind.

Tasting & Pairings

Lemon curd, honeyed apricot, almond pastry cream, peach fuzz, river stones, lime zest, and honeysuckle. Lively and lithe with mineral structure and a glossy mid-palate. Serve lightly chilled.

• Lobster or crab with drawn butter — the wine’s richness and acidity are a perfect match.
• Roasted chicken with tarragon — a classic pairing for textured, mineral-driven Chardonnay.
• Aged Comté or Gruyère — nutty cheeses complement the pastry cream and stone fruit notes.

Frog's Leap · Napa Valley, California · 2023

Frog's Leap is one of Napa Valley's most celebrated organic estates, farming without pesticides or herbicides since 1981 and dry-farming their vineyards to encourage deep root systems and natural vine stress. Their Shale and Stone Chardonnay takes its name from the ancient fractured shale soils beneath their Napa Valley vineyards — a terroir that imparts a striking minerality and stony tension rarely found in California Chardonnay. Vinified entirely in concrete with extended sur lie aging, this wine is crafted without new oak, allowing the fruit and soil character to speak for themselves.

The 2023 vintage in Napa Valley delivered ideal growing conditions — warm days, cool nights, and a late harvest that built exceptional concentration while retaining the freshness that defines this bottling. In the glass, spiced apples and ripe pears open alongside hints of citrus peel and raw almonds. The palate is taut yet generous — medium to full-bodied with a compact, lightly phenolic texture, vivid acidity, and a long, lingering mineral finish. Drink now or hold through 2028.

"Spiced apples and pears with hints of citrus peel and raw almonds on the nose. Tense and juicy with medium to full body and a compact, lightly phenolic texture. Vivid and lingering."
— James Suckling, 91 Points.

"The 2023 Chardonnay Shale and Stone, from Truchard in Carneros, is all class. Apricot, lemon confit, marzipan, tangerine peel, tropical fruit and a kiss of French oak grace this exotic, dynamic Chardonnay from Frog's Leap. Airy and gracious, with stunning balance, the 2023 is fabulous in every way." - 96 Points VINOUS

• Producer: Frog's Leap Winery, Rutherford, Napa Valley
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA, California
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Farming: Certified Organic, Dry-Farmed
• Vinification: Concrete aging, extended sur lie, no new oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Spiced apple, ripe pear, citrus peel, raw almond, stony minerality, vivid acidity
• Food Pairings: Grilled halibut, roast chicken, oysters, goat cheese, vegetable risotto

Napa Chardonnay at its most honest — organic, unoaked, mineral-driven, and built to last.

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

Vinous 93 Points | The 2021 Chardonnay Cordillera de los Andes comes from the Talinay vineyard in Limarí. 50% was aged in French barrels, 23% of them new. Yellow with a greenish sheen. The nose offers green apple notes with hints of pear, acacia, hazelnuts and a whiff of praline over a bed of oak. In the mouth it has a saline feel with a slightly creamy flow and pert freshness. A long-lasting wine.

Winemaker Description 

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.

Louis Latour · Bourgogne · 2025

Louis Latour Bourgogne Chardonnay 2025 is a fresh, floral expression of white Burgundy, combining generous white peach fruit with a supple texture and a refreshing mineral finish. Made entirely from Chardonnay and aged without oak, it keeps the grape’s delicate aromatics and fruit character in focus.

Hand-harvested grapes come from vines averaging 30 years of age. Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel is followed by full malolactic fermentation, lending roundness to the palate. Eight to ten months of aging in stainless steel preserves the wine’s freshness and floral appeal.

Tasting Notes

Pale gold with green highlights, the wine opens with honeysuckle and fresh almond aromas. The palate is rounded and generous, with white peach flavors leading to a refreshing finish and a subtle mineral touch.

Food Pairings & Serving

Enjoy as an aperitif or alongside shellfish, grilled fish and fine charcuterie. Serve lightly chilled to bring out its freshness and delicate aromatics.

Details

• Producer: Louis Latour
• Vintage: 2025
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy (Bourgogne)
• Appellation: Bourgogne AOC
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Type: White wine
• Style: Dry and unoaked
• Vines: Average age of 30 years
• Harvest: Hand-harvested
• Fermentation: Temperature-controlled stainless steel; full malolactic fermentation
• Aging: Eight to ten months in stainless steel

L. Aubry Fils | Brut | Premier Cru | Montagne de Reims, Champagne | NV (70% 2021 Base) | Transitioning Organic

Wine and Spirits: 92 Points — Fresh and complex, showing red currant, green pear, red apple and wildflower honey. Praised for its lively herbal acidity, generous fruit and the additional character contributed by Champagne's rare historic grape varieties.

James Suckling: 92 Points — Smooth, rounded and beautifully balanced, with bright lemon and citrus flavors, gentle nuttiness and a refined pastry-like texture on the finish.

Wine Spectator: 91 Points — Firm and mineral driven, with wild cherry, berry fruit, wet chalk and brine. A fine mousse carries notes of whole-grain toast, grapefruit pith and lemon thyme through the finish. (Disgorged March 2025)

Vinous: 91 Points — Gracious, elegant and charming, with delicate notes of orchard fruit, spice, dried flowers and mint. (Disgorged May 2021)

L. Aubry Fils is one of Champagne's most singular grower-producers. The Aubry family has cultivated vines in the region since 1790, and brothers Philippe and Pierre Aubry now run the estate from the Premier Cru village of Jouy-les-Reims in the Petite Montagne de Reims. Their particular distinction lies in the preservation of Champagne's rarest historic grape varieties — Arbanne, Petit Meslier and Fromenteau (the local name for Pinot Gris) — cultivated today by only a handful of producers in the region. These varieties appear in the Brut alongside the three classic Champagne grapes, lending the wine an aromatic complexity and originality that sets it apart from the mainstream.

The current release is composed of 31% Chardonnay, 31% Pinot Noir, 31% Pinot Meunier and 7% Arbanne, Petit Meslier and Fromenteau, drawn from Premier Cru vineyards in Jouy-les-Reims, Villedommange, Pargny-les-Reims and Coulommes-la-Montagne. The soils are fossil-rich limestone, contributing brightness, pronounced acidity and a firm mineral character. The estate is progressively transitioning toward organic farming, with close attention to soil health and the long-term preservation of its historic varieties.

The base is 70% from the 2021 harvest, supplemented by 30% reserve wines dating back to 1998 — a perpetual reserve that adds depth, maturity and consistency across releases. Vinification is primarily in stainless steel, preserving freshness and fruit purity, with a portion of the Chardonnay matured in previously used oak barrels for texture and subtle pastry richness. Malolactic fermentation is completed in full. After secondary fermentation in bottle, the wine ages more than 18 months on its lees and is finished at a dosage of approximately 4 grams per liter — dry, energetic and food-friendly.

The wine opens with aromas of green pear, crisp apple, white peach and red berries, followed by white flowers, citrus peel, fresh bread and subtle wildflower honey. With air, notes of toasted grain, almond, dried herbs and chalk emerge. The palate is lively and finely balanced — fresh orchard fruit and bright citrus are joined by wild cherry, raspberry and red currant, while a delicate mousse carries whole-grain toast, grapefruit pith, lemon thyme and roasted nuts. Firm acidity and a mineral foundation of wet chalk and brine lead to a clean, persistent and gently saline finish.

Serve as an aperitif or pair with oysters, shellfish, grilled fish, smoked salmon, sushi, roast chicken, charcuterie, mushroom dishes, fried appetizers and moderately aged cheeses. Serve well chilled at 46–50°F in a white wine or tulip-shaped Champagne glass.

• Producer: L. Aubry Fils
• Cuvée: Brut
• Classification: Premier Cru Brut
• Appellation: Champagne, France
• Region: Montagne de Reims
• Villages: Jouy-les-Reims, Villedommange, Pargny-les-Reims and Coulommes-la-Montagne
• Grape Varieties: 31% Chardonnay, 31% Pinot Noir, 31% Pinot Meunier, 7% Arbanne / Petit Meslier / Fromenteau
• Base Vintage: 70% 2021 harvest
• Reserve Wines: 30%, dating back to 1998
• Farming: Transitioning organic
• Soils: Fossil-rich limestone
• Vinification: Primarily stainless steel; portion of Chardonnay in used oak
• Malolactic Fermentation: Yes
• Lees Aging: 18+ months
• Dosage: ~4 g/L
• Bottle Size: 750ml

As a non-vintage Champagne, grape proportions, base vintages, reserve wine percentages, dosage, lees aging period and disgorgement dates may vary by release. Critic ratings may refer to different disgorgements of the same cuvée.

Hess Select Chardonnay Monterey County 2025 · Monterey County, California, United States

Producer Description

Hess Collection is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, with estates spanning Napa Valley and beyond. Hess Select is their approachable everyday label — crafted with the same attention to quality as their flagship wines but designed for the table. This Monterey County Chardonnay draws from one of California’s premier cool-climate appellations, where Pacific breezes off Monterey Bay preserve natural acidity and allow grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, producing Chardonnay of genuine character at an honest price.

Winemaker’s Notes

Monterey’s combination of moderate climate and marine influences from the Pacific Ocean keep the grapes balanced and able to develop fully ripe flavors. A classic Central Coast Chardonnay, this wine offers tropical aromas of grilled pineapple with a hint of star fruit and vanilla. Nicely balanced, Hess Select Chardonnay is medium-bodied with layers of sliced peaches and golden delicious apples, finishing crisp and clean with well-balanced acid. — Hess

Tasting Notes

This Hess Select Chardonnay opens with inviting aromas of grilled pineapple and lemon zest, lifted by a hint of oak — approachable from the very first pour. On the palate, layers of sliced white peach and Golden Delicious apple linger gracefully through the finish. A delicate brioche toast note and bright, refreshing acidity make this a California Chardonnay you'll keep coming back to, sip after sip.

A thoughtful blend of 70% stainless steel and 30% French oak fermentation keeps the wine fresh and bright while adding a touch of richness. The nose opens with aromas of grilled pineapple, star fruit, and vanilla, leading to a medium-bodied palate of sliced peach and golden apple, with a touch of crème brûlée on the finish — clean, balanced, and crowd-pleasing.

Food Pairings

Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster mac and cheese, creamy pasta, Brie, aged cheddar, and goat cheese.

Details

• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Region: Monterey County, California, United States
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Type: White

Kendall-Jackson | Santa Barbara County, California | Chardonnay | 2023

Santa Barbara County's unique east-west mountain orientation channels cold Pacific breezes deep into the estate vineyards of the Santa Maria and Los Alamos Valleys — a geological quirk that produces grapes of exceptional intensity and natural acidity. Aged in partly new French oak, the Grand Reserve Chardonnay delivers a creamy, layered texture grounded by bright minerality from the region's calcareous soils. This is KJ at its most refined: lush, structured, and built for the table.

Clones: Dijon and Rued
Oak: Partly new French oak
Drink: Now–2028

Tasting Notes

• Lush tropical fruit, citrus, and floral notes on the nose
• Vanilla, spice, and calciferous minerality on the palate
• Creamy mouthfeel | Bright acidity | Long, rich finish

Pairings: Crab cakes, scallops, roast chicken, soft cheeses, creamy pasta

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.

Martin Ray Sonoma Coast Chardonnay — Sonoma Coast, California 2024

Martin Ray is one of California's most storied names in Chardonnay — a producer with deep roots in Sonoma winemaking whose commitment to sourcing from premium, standout vineyard sites throughout the vast and rugged Sonoma Coast has consistently produced wines that overperform at their price point. The 2024 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is a multi-vineyard blend assembled from the region’s top-performing sites, crafted to pay honorable tribute to the esteemed AVA. The result is a bright, layered, and minerally driven white that earned 93 Points from James Suckling and delivers well above its price.

The nose is fresh and expressive: citrus blossom, green apple, Asian pear, sliced apple, and oyster shell, with lovely aromatic density. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a lively core of lemon curd, crisp pineapple, and citrus zest, 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. It is elegant, food-friendly, and deeply satisfying — the kind of Sonoma Coast Chardonnay that disappears fast.

"A solid Chardonnay with sliced apple, lime and oyster shell aromas. It’s medium-bodied with lovely density and hints of nougat, pears and green mangoes." — James Suckling, 93 Points. (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Martin Ray Winery, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Aging: Oak-aged for vanilla, baking spice & citrus complexity with mineral lift
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus blossom, green apple, Asian pear, lemon curd, pineapple, oyster shell, vanilla, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled halibut, roasted chicken, lobster bisque, soft cheeses, Caesar salad

Sonoma Coast’s benchmark value Chardonnay at an honest price — Martin Ray is the standard for what multi-vineyard, mineral-driven California Chardonnay can deliver.

White Walnut Estate · Worden Hill Road · Dundee Hills · 2019

A biodynamically grown Oregon Chardonnay with layered fruit, bright acidity, and a sleek, creamy texture. The 2019 bottling brings together nectarine, citrus peel, and floral aromatics with the flinty detail and lingering finish highlighted in its expert review.

Producer & Place

White Walnut Estate’s supplied winemaker description identifies this wine as a regional blend showcasing the Dundee Hills AVA. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, it reflects the producer’s commitment to minimal-intervention winemaking.

Tasting Notes

Nectarine, honeysuckle, and bee pollen meet citrus peel, grilled pineapple, and apricot. Richness builds across the palate, balanced by fresh acidity and a smooth texture, with lemon-drop and mineral notes carrying through the finish.

Expert Review · 2019 Vintage

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

White Walnut Estate | 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.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Try with seared scallops, roast chicken, halibut with lemon butter, or a mushroom tart. Serve chilled and allow a little time in the glass for the floral aromatics and layered texture to unfold.

Wine Details

• Producer: White Walnut Estate
• Listing designation: Worden Hill Road
• Vintage: 2019
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Appellation: Dundee Hills, Oregon
• Country: United States
• Farming: Biodynamically grown grapes, per James Suckling
• Bottling: Unfined and unfiltered
• Size: 750ml

A layered Dundee Hills Chardonnay that pairs generous texture with freshness and mineral detail.

Kumeu River Village Chardonnay — Kumeu 2025

Kumeu River is New Zealand’s benchmark for Chardonnay — full stop. The Brajkovich family has been producing world-class wine from their 30-hectare estate in Kumeu, west of Auckland, since the pioneering days of the New Zealand wine industry, and their Chardonnays he Village label draws on fruit from Kumeu and Hawkes Bay, capturing the estate’s signature minerality and precision in an approachable, early-drinking style.

2025 was an outstanding vintage: a dry, warm growing season with steady temperatures and moderate yields produced fruit of exceptional richness and aromatic intensity. The nose is lively and expressive — lime, lemon, fig, and white peach with a flinty, mineral edge. On the palate, it is weighty and textural, with peachy ripeness and a crisp, cleansing acidity that gives the wine its signature refreshing quality. Delightful as an aperitif; even better with the table.

• Producer: Kumeu River Wines, Kumeu, Auckland, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Kumeu, New Zealand
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lime, lemon, fig, white peach, flinty minerality, weighty mid-palate, crisp finish
• Best Paired With: Fish, shellfish, roasted chicken, soft cheeses, aperitif

The global benchmark for New Zealand Chardonnay — Kumeu River Village is precision, minerality, and terroir in every glass.

Delamotte · Brut Champagne · Non-Vintage · 750ml

Delamotte Brut NV combines orchard fruit and citrus with brioche, chalky minerality and a fine, creamy mousse. Fresh and inviting, it balances a generous texture with lively acidity and a focused finish, making it an elegant aperitif or partner for a seafood dinner.

Producer & Terroir

Founded in 1760, Champagne Delamotte has a long history and a close association with Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, the grand cru village in the Côte des Blancs. The house emphasizes consistency, delicacy and character across a focused range of four cuvées: Blanc de Blancs, vintage Blanc de Blancs, Brut and Rosé.

This Brut blends Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The reviews below describe individual non-vintage releases; their blend proportions and base years are retained in their original context rather than presented as specifications for every bottle.

Expert Reviews · Non-Vintage Releases

Jeb Dunnuck · 90 Points. The NV Champagne Le Mesnil Sur Oger Brut is a terrific Champagne, offering lots of juicy citrus and stone fruits as well as more apple and brioche characteristics with time in the glass. Possessing a medium-bodied, fresh, lively style, with a distinct minerality on the palate, it has an elegant mousse, fine acidity, and a great finish. The blend is 55% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, and the balance Pinot Meunier, with only a portion of the blend going through malolactic fermentation.

William Kelley · Robert Parker's Wine Advocate · 90 Points. The latest release of Delamotte's NV Brut is especially charming, bursting with aromas of crisp orchard fruit, peach and freshly baked bread. Medium to full-bodied, pillowy and enveloping, it's a fleshy, giving wine that's ample and pliant, with a pinpoint mousse and a nicely defined finish.

James Suckling · 91 Points · 2018 Base Release. Attractively chalky and biscuity nose, with some honey, apricots and lemon cream. It's balanced and focused, with very fine bubbles, a medium body and well-rounded finish. 60% chardonnay, 35% pinot noir and 5% meunier. Base wine from 2018 with 20% reserve wines from 2017 and 2016. Drink now.

Andy Howard MW · Jancis Robinson · 16 Points. Fresh, clean, lemon zest/sherbet on the nose. Tight and precise on the palate with a fine, lengthy finish. Just a tad bitter at the end but a classy entry point to the Delamotte range.

Alison Napjus · Wine Spectator · 91 Points. A minerally Champagne, with a streak of smoke, chalk and oyster shell notes supporting flavors of Asian pear, star fruit and candied lemon peel as they ride the creamy mousse. Racy, focused finish. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Drink now.

Pairing & Serving

Serve chilled as an aperitif, or try oysters, grilled fish, shrimp or light poultry dishes. Allow a little time in the glass for the orchard-fruit and brioche notes to unfold.

Details

• Producer: Champagne Delamotte
• Cuvée: Brut
• Vintage: Non-vintage
• Country: France
• Region / appellation: Champagne AOC
• House location: Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Côte des Blancs
• Grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier
• Type: Sparkling wine / Champagne
• Style: Brut
• Bottle size: 750ml

Elena Walch Selezione Alto Adige Chardonnay 2025 is an elegant and beautifully balanced white wine from one of northern Italy’s most respected family-owned estates. Located in Alto Adige, where the dramatic Dolomite mountains create ideal conditions for producing vibrant, expressive white wines, Elena Walch has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and a distinctive sense of place.

Originally trained as an architect, Elena Walch helped establish the winery’s international reputation through her pioneering approach to viticulture and winemaking. Today, her daughters Julia and Karoline continue the family legacy, bringing a new generation of expertise and dedication to the estate.

The 2025 Selezione Chardonnay showcases the freshness and finesse that make Alto Adige such an exciting region for this classic grape variety. Aromas of white peach, orchard fruits, and delicate floral notes mingle with subtle hints of blanched almonds and stony minerality. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and creamy, offering an appealing combination of ripe fruit, lively acidity, and elegant structure.

Its refreshing mineral character provides balance and precision, leading to a clean, harmonious finish. This is a Chardonnay that delivers richness without heaviness, making it both approachable and sophisticated.

Food Pairing: An excellent companion to grilled fish, shellfish, roasted poultry, creamy risotto, fresh pasta, and mild cheeses. Its bright acidity and rounded texture also make it a delightful aperitif.

Expert Ratings

91 Points — James Suckling, reviewed by Andrii Stetsiuk:  "White peaches and blanched almonds with a stony, mineral edge. Medium-bodied and creamy, yet fresh, with a clean finish. Drink now." — Andrii Stetsiuk, 2026

90 Points - Wines Spectator: "A fresh and floral version, with crisp acidity creating a buoyant frame for flavors of Gala apple, blood orange zest, green almond and mineral. Lightly chalky on the finish. Drink now. 3,400 cases made." — Alison Napjus, 2026

A beautifully crafted Alto Adige Chardonnay that combines alpine freshness, creamy elegance, and exceptional value.

Wine Specifications

• Producer: Elena Walch

• Wine: Selezione Chardonnay

• Country: Italy

• Region: Alto Adige (South Tyrol), Trentino-Alto Adige

• Appellation: Alto Adige DOC

• Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay

• Wine Type: Dry White Wine

• Alcohol: 13% ABV

• Soil: Limestone

• Vineyard Exposure: Southeast-facing

• Vineyard Elevation: Mid-altitude vineyards reaching up to 600 meters (1,970 feet)

• Harvest: Entirely hand-harvested

• 2025 Harvest Season: August 27 through late September

• Vinification: Gentle pressing followed by low-temperature static clarification. Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks at approximately 20°C (68°F).

• Maturation: Several months on fine lees in stainless steel tanks

• Oak Aging: None

• Residual Sugar: 0.8 g/L

• Total Acidity: 5.8 g/L

• Serving Temperature: 54–57°F (12–14°C)

• Aging Potential: 3–5 years

• Food Pairings: Mediterranean cuisine, seafood, freshwater fish, pasta, roasted poultry, and mild cheeses

About the 2025 Harvest

The 2025 growing season in Alto Adige delivered excellent conditions for producing fresh, balanced white wines. Following early flowering and a warm, dry June, cooler temperatures in July helped preserve the grapes' natural acidity. Favorable ripening conditions in August and a September marked by alternating sunshine and occasional rainfall allowed the grapes to reach optimal maturity. The resulting vintage combines expressive fruit character with freshness and balance.

Pierre Moncuit Coulmet Brut Blanc de Blancs (Base 2020) is a beautifully expressive Grower Champagne made from 100% Chardonnay sourced from the Côte de Sézanne, just south of the famed Côte des Blancs. Produced by the historic family-run house of Pierre Moncuit, this cuvée offers a fresh and approachable introduction to the domaine's elegant, Chardonnay-driven style.

Though labeled non-vintage, this release is based on the 2020 harvest. The wine is vinified in stainless steel and aged on the lees for approximately 24 months before release, giving it lovely texture and finesse while preserving its bright, mineral character.

In the glass, Coulmet opens with inviting aromas of white peach, lemon zest, green apple, fresh flowers, and light pastry notes. The palate is crisp and lively, with fine bubbles and flavors of citrus, orchard fruit, chalk, and subtle brioche. Clean, balanced, and refreshing — an exceptional aperitif and a wonderful match for shellfish, sushi, light seafood dishes, and soft cheeses.

A terrific value in Grower Champagne and a perfect bottle for those discovering the purity and charm of Blanc de Blancs.

"The NV (Base 2020) Brut Blanc de Blancs Coulmet, from vines in Sézanne, is soft, open-knit and gracious, all of which make it a fine choice for drinking now and over the next handful of years. Baked apple tart, apricot, dried flowers and spice are all beautifully laced together. This is such a pretty and alluring Champagne. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: May 2025."
— Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media | 91 VM

"The wine (Base 2020) offers up a lovely nose of pear, raw almond, chalky soil tones, bread dough and a topnote of white flowers. On the palate the wine is bright, zesty and full-bodied, with a good core of fruit, fine mineral undertow, elegant mousse, brisk acids and fine length and grip on the complex and well balanced finish. Good juice. (Drink between 2024–2045)"
— Jeb Dunnuck | 90 JD

Wine Details

• Producer: Pierre Moncuit
• Cuvée: Coulmet
• Style: Brut Blanc de Blancs
• Base Vintage: 2020
• Country: France
• Region: Champagne
• Subregion: Côte de Sézanne
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel
• Aging: Approx. 24 months sur lie
• Dosage: 7 g/L
• Disgorgement: May 2025

About Pierre Moncuit

Based in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Champagne Pierre Moncuit is a historic family estate particularly renowned for its Chardonnay-based Champagnes. While the estate's flagship Delos cuvée comes from Grand Cru Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Coulmet draws from the family's holdings in the Côte de Sézanne — a region prized for its rounder, fruit-forward expression of Chardonnay.

Why We Like It

Coulmet delivers the hallmark precision and elegance of Pierre Moncuit at an accessible price point. The Côte de Sézanne fruit adds a generous, approachable character that makes this an ideal everyday Champagne — and a compelling introduction to the world of Grower Champagne.

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%

Louis Latour Grand Ardèche Chardonnay — Coteaux de l’Ardèche, France 2023

Louis Latour is one of Burgundy’s most storied and respected négociant-éleveurs, with roots going back to 1797 in Aloxe-Corton. Their Grand Ardèche is a landmark wine in its category — a Chardonnay from the wild, granite-soiled hills of the Ardèche in southern France, first released in 1979 as one of the original “Vin de Pays” experiments and still one of the best examples of what Chardonnay can achieve outside of Burgundy. Crafted with the same attention and philosophy that Louis Latour applies to their Burgundy whites, Grand Ardèche consistently over-delivers for its price, earning it a loyal following among sommeliers and Burgundy lovers alike.

The color is pale gold with green highlights, clean and inviting. The nose is rich and aromatic: honey, acacia blossom, and roasted almond, with the restrained, elegant character that is Latour’s hallmark. On the palate, the wine is textured and well-rounded, with fine integrated acidity and a distinctive saline, mineral finish that lingers and keeps the glass coming back. It is the rare Chardonnay that is both immediately pleasurable and genuinely thought-provoking.

“A pale yellow colour with pale green hues. Its rich nose reveals aromas of honey, acacia and almond. Backed by fine acidity, this wine leaves a slightly saline finish that will leave your taste buds salivating.” — Louis Latour

• Producer: Louis Latour, Aloxe-Corton, Burgundy (est. 1797)
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Coteaux de l’Ardèche — Vin de Pays, France
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Honey, acacia, roasted almond, fine acidity, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Aperitif, oysters, shellfish, grilled fish, charcuterie, soft goat cheese, roast chicken

Burgundy’s most respected house applies its craft to southern France — Louis Latour Grand Ardèche is the insider’s Chardonnay: Burgundian elegance, Ardèche character, and remarkable value at $24.

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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.

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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.

Our Professional Review

Bart of 67wino.shop writes | Beautifully sculpted and finely detailed, this delicious village white Burgundy has a terrific bouquet of white orchard fruits, wildflowers and lemon zest. There is lovely mouth presence with layers of flavor highlighted with mineral complexity and perfectly balanced acidity. This is a wine that presents itself in the glass with elegance and sophistication, and will accompany fine dining gracefully with finesse and savoir faire!

Winemaker Description 

Tasting note

Aromas of hawthorn, acacia which evolve with age to ambre, honey and spices. A harmonious and pleasant body on the palate.
Food pairings

Ideal with the pastas and risottos with seafood, the cheeses such as the blue cheeses.

Folie à Deux · Chardonnay · Russian River Valley · 2023

Folie à Deux Russian River Chardonnay 2023 balances generous California fruit with fresh acidity. Pear, apple, pineapple and apricot mingle with nutmeg and vanilla, while the richly textured palate stays bright and focused. Creamy yet crisp, it is an inviting white for the table.

Producer & Terroir

Named for the French phrase “a passion shared by two,” Folie à Deux highlights California appellations with an emphasis on value. This Chardonnay comes from cool-climate vineyards in Sonoma County's Russian River Valley, where Pacific fog and a long growing season help preserve freshness and develop complexity.

Expert Review  - Vintage 2023

James Suckling · 91 Points · 2023. Aromas of citrus, ripe pears, baked apples, nuts and a touch of vanilla. The palate is full-bodied with a rounded, fruit-forward mouthfeel and balanced acidity, giving a smooth and generous finish. Good value.

Winemaker Description

Folie à Deux Winemaker. “Indicative of its cool-climate origins, with bright acidity beneath notes of pear, apple, pineapple, apricot, nutmeg and vanilla — all framed by a richly textured palate.”

Pairing & Serving

Try roast chicken, grilled salmon, shrimp pasta or a creamy mushroom risotto. Serve chilled, allowing a little time in the glass for the fruit and spice notes to open.

Details

• Producer: Folie à Deux
• Vintage: 2023
• Country: United States
• Region: California
• County: Sonoma County
• Appellation: Russian River Valley
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Type: White wine
• Bottle size: 750ml

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 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.

Mineral · Fresh · Elegant · Precise · Persistent

A beautifully structured Premier Cru Chablis with orchard fruit, floral lift and classic mineral tension.

Domaine William Fèvre’s Chablis 1er Cru Montmains 2023 is a refined expression of one of Chablis’ most respected Premier Cru vineyards. Montmains is known for producing wines with excellent freshness, firm mineral structure and the ability to develop beautifully with time.

Under longtime winemaker Didier Séguier, William Fèvre brings together fruit from multiple parcels across Montmains, including sections of Forêts and Butteaux. The result is a wine that combines the vineyard’s characteristic restraint and mineral grip with impressive depth, elegance and persistence. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

The 2023 vintage opens with delicate aromas of white blossom, freshly cut golden apple and subtle brioche, joined by notes of green apple, gooseberry, acacia flower and gentle spice.

On the palate, the wine is lively, fresh and beautifully balanced. Bright orchard fruit is carried by crisp acidity, while a firm mineral backbone adds structure and definition. There is excellent substance beneath the freshness, giving the wine both immediate appeal and the potential to develop additional complexity in the cellar.

The finish is long, precise and persistent, with a cool mineral character and subtle saline quality that are unmistakably Chablis.

Food Pairing

Pair with oysters, scallops, crab, lobster and grilled white fish, as well as roast chicken, veal, creamy seafood dishes and fresh goat cheese. Its combination of freshness and structure also makes it an excellent partner for dishes finished with light butter or cream sauces.

Serve lightly chilled to allow the wine’s floral aromas, orchard fruit and mineral complexity to fully emerge.

Professional Ratings

95 Decanter Magazine: In the hands of Fèvre winemaker Didier Séguier, premier cru Montmains has a certain initial reserve. But with time, the green apple and gooseberry notes, touched with acacia blossoms and spice, open up on the palate. The texture is lively and fresh, yet there is substance here as well. The grapes are assembled from 10 parcels throughout Montmains, including some in Forêts and Butteaux. Séguier explains that Butteaux is deep in the valley and further from the Serein so it ripens later. The grapes are fermented in tank and older casks for 40–50% of the harvest.

94 Jasper Morris: Assembled earlier today, so cloudy and this procedure also masks the nose. Classic Montmains behind, with the usual reductive grip, yet also some elegance, very persistent. The lees were first class, says Didier Seguier and this certainly has the makings of a first class Montmains. Barrel sample: 91-94

94 Wine Enthusiast: Delicate aromas of white blossom, brioche, freshly cut golden apple, and dried grass draw in the nose with feathery opulence. The palate is rich with citrusy acidity that plays second fiddle to fall-rip- ened orchard fruit that washes across wet stone on the finish. Editor’s Choice.

93 James Suckling: Lovely elegance with a chalky, marine-like character to the nose, along with lime and minerals. Medium weight, with chalky notes and some white fruit leading to a pithy, lightly salty, bitter finish. Very attractive.

92 Wine Spectator: There’s a sleek feel to this white despite its rich texture, revealing lemon, apple and flint flavors, plus a hint of honey. Harmonious and enticing, this ends with citrus and stone elements. Shows fine expression and length.

The Style

Fresh, elegant and mineral-driven — a classic Premier Cru Chablis with beautiful tension, depth and a long, precise finish.

Chardonnay, Moscatel, Fiano | Salento, Puglia / Italy
Vintage: 2023  |  Size: 750ml
90+ Rated

Cantine San Marzano is one of Puglia’s most celebrated cooperative estates, farming the sun-drenched heel of Italy’s boot with a commitment to quality that has earned them an international following. “Edda Lei” — named for a woman, as the best things often are — is their flagship white blend: a luxurious, opulent expression of Southern Italian viticulture that draws comparisons to fine white Burgundy, but with the exotic, sun-drenched aromatics that only Salento can deliver.

The 2023 vintage is a blend of Chardonnay, Moscatel, and Fiano, each variety contributing its own dimension. Tropical and yellow fruit lead the nose — pineapple, lychee, and melon — with delicate seashell and floral notes woven throughout. On the palate, it is fresh and gently saline, medium- to full-bodied, with a richness that feels Mediterranean in the best possible sense. A wine with genuine cult appeal and the structure to match.

“Lovely tropical and yellow fruit on the nose, such as pineapple, lychees and melon, as well as seashells and flowers. It’s fresh and gently saline with a medium to full body.”
— James Suckling, 91 Points. (Vintage 2023). 

Pairs with: Sea bass in butter sauce, lobster, scallops, veal, or herb-roasted chicken.

Pierre Moncuit Delos Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is a refined, mineral-driven Grower Champagne produced entirely from 100% Chardonnay grown in the Grand Cru village of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, one of the most celebrated Chardonnay terroirs in Champagne's Côte des Blancs.

Delos is one of the signature cuvées of the family-run Pierre Moncuit estate and offers a classic expression of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger: elegant, precise and beautifully structured, with the chalky mineral character for which this Grand Cru village is renowned.

Although labeled non-vintage, this release is based on the 2021 harvest. Pierre Moncuit favors vinification and aging in stainless steel, allowing the purity of the Chardonnay and its terroir to remain at the forefront. The Brut Delos is finished with a dosage of 7 grams per liter, giving the wine a slightly rounder and more generous profile than the estate's Extra Brut version while retaining freshness and tension.

The Base 2021 release offers an inviting combination of white flowers, orchard fruit, pastry, spice and mint. The palate balances bright acidity with a softer, more generous texture, leading to an elegant, persistent finish. A beautifully versatile Champagne for both aperitif drinking and the dinner table.

Pair with oysters, shellfish, sushi, grilled fish, lobster, roast chicken, creamy cheeses — or simply enjoy on its own as an elegant aperitif.

Wine Details

• Producer: Pierre Moncuit
• Cuvée: Delos
• Style: Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru
• Base Vintage: 2021
• Country: France
• Region: Champagne
• Subregion: Côte des Blancs
• Village: Le Mesnil-sur-Oger Grand Cru
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel
• Dosage: 7 g/L
• Disgorgement: May 2025; multiple disgorgements throughout the year
• Drinking Window: 2025–2031

About Pierre Moncuit

Based in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Champagne Pierre Moncuit is a historic family estate particularly renowned for its Chardonnay-based Champagnes. The name Delos comes from the maiden name of Nicole and Yves Moncuit's mother. The cuvée is produced in both Brut and Extra Brut versions and stands as one of the domaine's principal Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs expressions.

Press Notes

91 pts — Vinous Media: "The NV (2021) Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Delos Grand Cru is attractive, although a touch svelte in this release. Brisk acids cut through a core of citrus fruit, while floral and chalky notes lift the mid-palate and finish." Dosage: 3 g/L. Disgorged: February 2025.

Why We Like It

Delos is an excellent introduction to the distinctive Chardonnay of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. The Brut bottling combines the village's naturally racy, mineral personality with just enough dosage to give the wine additional texture and accessibility — refined enough for a special occasion, versatile enough for the whole meal.

Defaix Frères Rully 1er Cru Les Cloux — Burgundy 2022

Defaix Frères is a family domaine with deep roots in the Côte Chalonnaise, farming 11 acres of Rully Premier Cru holdings that have been in the family for generations. Les Cloux is one of Rully’s most prized Premier Cru vineyards — a south-facing site that captures the full warmth of the Burgundian sun while retaining the limestone-driven minerality that defines the appellation. The 2022 vintage was a gift: a warm, dry growing season that produced Chardonnay of exceptional ripeness and concentration, with the structure to age gracefully for a decade or more. At this price, it is one of the most compelling Premier Cru values in all of Burgundy.

The color is a luminous golden straw. The nose is refined and expressive: ripe citrus, green apple, white peach, and delicate white flowers, layered with warm spice and a signature note of roasted hazelnut from judicious oak élevage. On the palate, it is fresh and beautifully balanced — crisp acidity framing a subtle creamy texture, with flavors of lemon zest, orchard fruit, and gentle limestone minerality leading to a long, clean, and elegant finish.

“Delicious, open, and friendly — ripe, crisp apples and pears with an undercurrent of warm spices and roasted hazelnut. A judicious use of oak.”

• Producer: Defaix Frères, Rully, Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Rully 1er Cru Les Cloux AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Holdings: 11 acres of Rully Premier Cru
• Style: Refined, expressive, mineral-driven white Burgundy
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, green apple, white peach, white flowers, roasted hazelnut, warm spice, limestone minerality
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 8–10 years
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, lobster, seafood, creamy pastas, egg dishes, patés, soft cheeses

Premier Cru Burgundy at an honest price — Defaix Frères Les Cloux is the Côte Chalonnaise at its most compelling.

Louis Jadot Meursault — Côte de Beaune, Burgundy 2022

Louis Jadot is one of Burgundy's most celebrated and trusted négociants, producing wines of exceptional quality and consistency from the Côte d'Or since 1859. Their Meursault is a benchmark expression of this legendary appellation — the village that defines white Burgundy for wine lovers around the world. Meursault's unique combination of limestone and clay soils, combined with the 2022 vintage's exceptional ripeness and natural balance, has produced a Chardonnay of remarkable depth, texture, and longevity.

The nose is rich and inviting: ripe peach, golden apple, and honey layered with toasty oak and a subtle mineral undercurrent. On the palate, it is verging on creamy in texture — vibrant and harmonious, with beautifully integrated oak and a long, layered aftertaste where a distinctive mineral element emerges on the finish. Elegant, complex, and built to age gracefully.

Wine Spectator 92 Points — "Verging on creamy in texture, this white exudes peach, apple and honey flavors wrapped in an embrace of toasty oak. Vibrant and harmonious, with a long, layered aftertaste, where a mineral element emerges. Drink now through 2032." (Vintage 2022). 

• Producer: Louis Jadot, Beaune, Burgundy, France
• Founded: 1859
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Meursault AOC, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Style: Full-Bodied, Barrel-Aged White Burgundy
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe peach, golden apple, honey, toasty oak, creamy texture, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2032
• Best Paired With: Lobster, roasted scallops, Dover sole, roast chicken with cream sauce, aged Comté, truffle dishes
• Serve: 55–60°F, decant 15–20 minutes

92 points from Wine Spectator — Louis Jadot Meursault 2022 is white Burgundy at its most seductive: rich, mineral, and built for the ages.

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 

Domaine Leflaive Puligny Montrachet Biodynamic 2022 · Burgundy, France

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Charles Curtis MW, Decanter, 94 Points — This village-level wine is a reliable benchmark for the commune. It reflects the sunny character of the vintage with its ripe stone fruit and citrus notes, yet offers depth and complexity as well, with saline hints, flint and fresh white flowers. The texture is silky and approachable. It’s drinking now, but with enough substance to hold for five to 10 years.

Vinous, 92 Points — The 2022 Puligny-Montrachet Village has a nicely detailed bouquet of green apples. It’s a touch spicier than the Bourgogne Blanc with a trace of walnut coming through with aeration. The palate is nicely balanced with a keen line of acidity sour lemon hints and again that spice that lingers on the aftertaste.

Allen Meadows, Burghound, 90-92 Points — A markedly more floral-suffused nose features notes of cool Granny Smith apple citrus and a touch of mineral reduction. The caressing delicious and plump but agreeably energetic medium-bodied flavors possess solid depth and persistence on the balanced firm and highly refreshing finale. This is also excellent for its level and a wine that should drink well after only 3 to 4 years of keeping but age gracefully for a decade. Recommended.

Details

• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Region: Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy, France
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Type: White
• Farming: Biodynamic

Los Vascos · Colchagua Valley · 2025

Los Vascos wines blend Lafite tradition with the unique terroir of Chile to create elegant wines that bring exceptional quality to the everyday. The vision of Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) to expand their estate took them to South America in 1988, marking the first French viticultural investment in modern Chile. Los Vascos sits in the Colchagua Valley, a closed valley in Chile's central zone roughly 25 miles from the sea, where daily on-shore winds swing temperatures between 68-77°F for optimum grape maturation. With 1,581 acres planted across a 10,000-acre estate at the foot of Mount Cañeten, it's one of the largest vineyards in the Colchagua Valley.

Terroir & Vintage Notes

The estate spans a large diversity of soils: the valley floor holds sand and clay alluvions left by the erosion of neighboring granitic hills, alongside Tosca, a hard soil formed from volcanic ash. Fruit for this Chardonnay is sourced from the coolest parts of Los Vascos in Colchagua. The 2025 growing season saw a winter with above-average temperatures leading to early bud burst, a cooler spring than the relatively warm early summer that followed, before temperatures returned to average and stabilized through harvest.

Winemaking & Aging

Grapes are harvested before daylight to preserve maximum freshness, then pressed and fermented at low temperature in stainless steel tanks to protect their aromatic potential. The wine is partly aged on its lees, giving it a distinctive, rounded mouthfeel.

Tasting Notes

Crystalline, bright yellow with golden hues. Intense fruit aromas of green pineapple, fresh quince, papaya and jasmine layer with white flowers and grapefruit. The palate is refreshing with good volume, balanced acidity, and a pleasant tension that makes it easy to drink.

Expert Review

"A pure, fresh and restrained chardonnay here with a creamy edge to the lemon zest. A touch of cantaloupe. Creamy, medium-bodied palate with fresh acidity and a composed, supple mouthfeel. No oak." — James Suckling, 91 points (2022 Vintage)

Pairing & Serving

Serve chilled around 45-50°F alongside shellfish, ceviche, roast chicken, or creamy pastas. Its bright acidity and stone-fruit character also make it a natural match for soft cheeses.

Specs

• Producer: Los Vascos (Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite)
• Appellation: Colchagua Valley, Chile
• Vintage: 2025
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml