2014 Alyris Audition Chardonnay
Most local (Northern Californian) wine folks know that Sonoma (coast & Russian River), Santa Cruz Mountains, Livermore Valley & Napa Valley (Carneros Region) make some of the best Chardonnay wines from these vineyards. This is due to the cooler temperatures of the Pacific Ocean, the Russian River, San Francisco Bay and San Pablo Bay drawing the fog into the regions. No exception is the 2014 Alyris Audition Chardonnay. Always one of my personal favorite Chardonnay’s, regardless of price. The wine is put in 50% new French oak barrels. On the eyes a light straw color, but it holds a punch. On the nose, honeysuckle and traces of pineapple are the two main aromas that waffle into your senses along with floral notes. On the palate, these two flavors explode into ripeness with spices of nutmeg and allspice in the background. Always a great soft finish with just a touch of minerality. This wine won Double Gold Medal at the 2016 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Paired with some fresh sushi of Maguro, Sake and Hamachi made a perfect lunch. Normally $45, on their website it is listed for $38.25……definitely worth grabbing a bottle or two!
Slainte,
Michael
https://californiawinesandwineries.com
http://alyrisvineyards.com/
California Wines & Wineries 