Simi Chardonnay Sonoma County 2019

The hue of this wine is brilliantly clear, golden straw—a color that dramatically sets the stage for what is to come. The nose is similarly demonstrative, with expressive notes of baked apple and pear, a spritz of citrus, and notes of crème brûlée, subtle toast, clove, and vanilla. It all comes together on the palate with tangerine, lemon, butterscotch, and shortbread cookie flavors. The mouthfeel is Rubenesque in its richness with balancing minerality on the finish. Enjoy this food-friendly Chardonnay alongside smoked salmon with lemon aioli and toasted brioche; spot prawns sautéed with garlic, lemon, and parsley; or a Caprese salad with ripe peach slices, basil, and fresh mozzarella.

The 2019 growing season provided nearly ideal grape-growing conditions. Spring rains in April and May were very beneficial to the grapevines. Summer was warm and mild through September. The fruit ripened slowly, keeping acids high and allowing the flavors to develop fully and intensify. Harvest lasted a little over a month, commencing in mid-September and wrapping up in mid-October. Brix at harvest was between 23 and 25 degrees.