Sterling Vineyards Chardonnay — Tasting Notes
Sterling Vineyards’ Napa Valley Chardonnays are known for their bright fruit, creamy texture, and balanced oak influence, with notable differences between vintages and blends.
2023 Napa Valley Chardonnay
- Aroma: Fresh citrus, Granny Smith apple, lime.
- Palate: Round, luscious, creamy yet supple; ripe pineapple, Golden Delicious apple, melon, citron crème.
- Oak & Spice: Subtle vanilla, brioche toast, shortbread; hazelnut and lanolin add depth.
- Finish: Crisp, dry, long, refreshing.
- Style: 100% Chardonnay from Carneros, Oak Knoll, and Oakville sites; French (65%) and American (35%) oak; full malolactic fermentation.
2021 Napa Valley Chardonnay
- Aroma: Green apple, lime zest, orange blossom.
- Palate: Rich, creamy, viscous; candied pineapple, Fuji apple, lemon meringue; hints of baked Granny Smith apple pie, lemon curd, toasted marshmallow.
- Oak & Spice: Prickly spice, toasted almond skin, beeswax, lanolin, linen.
- Finish: Long, round, savory with salinity.
- Style: 100% Carneros grapes; French (65%) and American (35%) oak; notable oak backbone.
Vintner’s Collection Chardonnay (Central Coast)
- Aroma: Fresh pear, pineapple, Gala apple, Bartlett pear, hints of pineapple.
- Palate: Crisp citrus (lemon, lime, grapefruit) layered with darker fruits; spicy vanilla oak.
- Texture: Long, round, rich viscosity from partial malolactic fermentation.
- Finish: Citrus lift after mellowing through darker fruit notes.
- Style: Blends from Monterey, Paso Robles, Edna Valley; 90% French, 10% American oak.
