La Crema Monterey Chardonnay 2023

Drink now or hold for a few years. No need to decant before serving. Inspired by the foggy surroundings of the Russian River Valley, La Crema harbours a deep love for cool-climate grapes of all kinds. In the early days, when the winery was known as La Crema Viera, grapes were sourced from the valley itself and coastal Sonoma regions. It is now under the ownership of Jackson Family Wines who have enhanced that vineyard portfolio greatly, giving La Crema access to cool climate vines all over California and Oregon. The winery is currently spearheaded by New Zealander Craig McAllister, a well-travelled oenologist who brings wine-making experience from Australia, Chile and Cyprus. The team at La Crema still implement methods that respect the early days of the winery, by barrel fermenting Chardonnay and crushing grapes by hand. Sharp scents of lemon zest, pineapple and savoury baked apple waft from this attractive golden wine. The Chardonnay grapes were plucked from Monterey and spent 8 months maturing in French oak barrels. Pear and citrus fruits marry on the tongue, punctuated by an understated minerality. It bears a balanced, pleasant acidity and a long-lasting finish. Serve chilled and pair it with shellfish dishes or a fruit salad.