Napa Chardonnay

June 2017
Written By: 
James Ginley

Goes with sun, sand, seafood and more

Robert Mondavi Napa Chardonnay 2013
Napa Valley, California, $16

Pear and peach aromatics followed by toasty oak and a bit of nuttiness on the palate combine to create another success for this legacy winery. The flavors linger in your mouth and suggest you pair it with a creamy cheese or flavorful fish in a thick sauce. A good value for Chardonnay lovers.

Rombauer Chardonnay 2015
Carneros, California, $34

Baked apple pie and heady citrus notes fill your nose and spices, tropical fruits, crème brulee and a touch of butter get your attention. This is another choice for serious Chard drinkers who like a full-bodied wine. The Carneros wine region is unique because it is located partly in Napa and Sonoma counties. Great with chicken and fish dishes accompanied with a sauce.

Cakebread Napa Chardonnay 2014
Napa Valley, California, $45

A perennial favorite among serious California Chardonnay drinkers, this vintage offers apple, pear and honeydew aromas with hints of citrus, apple and tropical fruits on the palate. The lingering finish is minerally and a bit spicy. Try it with baked chicken, roasted veggies or a rich soup.

Stags’ Leap Winery Napa Chardonnay 2015
Napa Valley, $26

For those who prefer a less-oaky wine, try this crisp, classic offering from Stags’ Leap, another famous Napa winery. Light and flowery with subtle citrus and hazelnut aromas leading to balanced fruit and a lingering crisp finish. This wine can be paired with more dishes such as pasta, chicken or pork in a white sauce and cheeses and salads, not to mention key lime pie!

Beringer Private Reserve Chardonnay 2013
Napa Valley, California, $27

The epitome of a classic Napa Chardonnay with the finesse of a much more expensive wine. Notes and flavors of crusty pastry and baked apple with luscious fruit and lingering mouthfeel. This popular winery produces good and great wine at all price points, this one earning a 94 point rating by Wine.com. Another food-friendly choice to enjoy with many dishes.

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Photographs courtesy of the wineries.

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