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D Barrel Fermented, New French Oak

2012 Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay

The Kendall-Jackson D Barrel Fermented Chardonnay from the 2012 vintage hails from the renowned Santa Maria Valley, a region celebrated for its exceptional winegrowing conditions. This white wine showcases a delightful balance of body, with a medium fullness that supports its lush character. Upon tasting, the bright acidity offers a refreshing lift, enhancing the overall experience. The fruit intensity is pronounced, featuring enticing notes of ripe pear, apple, and hints of tropical fruit. The influence of new French oak lends complexity, imparting rich layers of vanilla and toast that complement the fruit beautifully. With a dry finish, this Chardonnay is an elegant and sophisticated choice that pairs beautifully with seafood or creamy pasta dishes, making it a true crowd-pleaser with an air of refinement.

Tasting notes:


Vanilla

Vanilla

Tropical Fruit

Tropical Fruit

Butter

Butter

Flavor profile:


Acidity Medium

Low Pronounced

Body Light

Very Light Full

Fruit Intensity Medium

Low Pronounced

Sweetness Dry

Bone Dry Sweet

Pairs well with:


Poached Fish, Ceviche, Lemon Butter Scallops

Region:


Santa Maria Valley

One hundred forty miles northwest of Los Angeles, the Santa Maria Valley is one of California's finest wine regions. Sun-baked and dry, yet river-fed and cooled by Pacific Ocean airflow, the wide east-west valley produces some of North America's most impeccably balanced Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. With its long growing season, grapes ripen slowly here, developing layers of flavor and fragrance. Moving inland, the extra warmth allows Bordeaux, Rhône, and Piedmont grape varieties to ripen entirely, producing richly seductive wines. Santa Maria Valley is California's second-oldest AVA, straddling both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.

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