Style of the Month: Port & Late Harvest

Port style and Late Harvest wines have sweeter profiles than other wines. Port, is traditionally made with Portuguese grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz. Alcohol, usually grape brandy, is added during fermentation, which fortifies the wine. Late harvest wines are made from grapes high in brix/sugar content that are left to hang on the vines and harvested late for concentrated flavor. Both styles have higher alcohol levels but are exceedingly delicious and can also be kept longer after opening than traditional wines. 

Here are capsule reviews of Port style and Late Harvest wines you may find along the Wine Road.

Cast 2017 Late Zinfandel Fortified

The whimsical logo on the bottle of the CAST 2017 Late Zinfandel is a hint to the magical delights within. Made with Watson Old Vine Zinfandel grapes and blended with 191 proof distilled spirits, the Late is a marvel of fortified fruity finesse. On the nose toffee, vanilla coffee bean, black plum and spicy black carnation. The palate is full and bright with flavors of baking spice, dried cherry, praline, brandied pear and marzipan. Pair with an array of aged cheese’s that will balance and enhance the rich flavors of the wine.  

ABV 18%

Dutton Estate 2017 Sweet Sisters Late Harvest Syrah, Russian River Valley

The Dutton Estate 2017 Sweet Sisters Late Harvest Syrah is a sumptuous mélange of scents and flavors. On the nose, deep aromas of caramel, blackberry, black cherry, mocha and clove. On the palate, the Syrah shines bright with flavors of mint, dark chocolate, eucalyptus, rum raisin, and raspberry. It’s like a liquid version of the Thin Mint! Velvety, yet light, this wine shows how subtlety and balance is the key to late harvest richness. Pair with S’mores or a dense Orange Olive Oil cake. 

ABV 14.2 %

Pedroncelli 2016 Vintage Port Four Grapes Dry Creek Valley

The 2016 Pedroncelli Vintage Port Four Grapes is an authentic representation of the style using a field blend of traditional Portuguese grapes—30% Tinta Madera 30% Tinta Cao, 20% Souzao, and 20% Touriga Nacional. Smooth, rich and velvety it’s like a warm embrace. On the nose notes of caramel, brown sugar, baking spice, fig newton and blackberry preserves. On the palate balanced flavors of mocha, black cherry, cinnamon, toffee and molasses with a hint of clove on the finish. It’s a great pleasure to drink now, yet it will continue to develop with age. Pair with a classic Blue Stilton cheese. 

ABV 19.5%

Ramazzotti 2013 Rapport Zinfandel Red Dessert Wine 

The Ramazzotti 2013 Rapport Zinfandel Red Dessert wine is fortified with Everclear—the grain alcohol, not the band. The Zinfandel grapes combined with the high proof alcohol create a fresh and fruity wine that’s a little bit Port and a whole lot of Zin. It’s wonderfully balanced and light with the scent of sun-warmed berries and light mocha. On the palate black cherry, molasses, caramel apple, warm toffee, ripe fig and baking spice. Easy, smooth and mellow, sip after sip. Pair with a decadent chocolate bread pudding.

ABV 18%

Trentadue 2019 Zinfandel Port, Alexander Valley 

On the nose the 2019 Trentadue Zinfandel Port has an engaging light scent of violets with secondary aromas of mocha, coffee, ripe black cherry and plum. On the palate it presents flavors of Raisinets, the classic chocolate covered raisin treat and notes of chocolate covered caramel, much like Rollo’s (the elegant cousin to Milk Duds). It’s a veritable trip to the movie house concession stand for all the nostalgic favorites. The long warm finish lingers with notes of dried fruit, black plum and molasses. At only four years of age it’s still very young and will certainly deepen and develop over time. Pair with your favorite old movie. 

ABV 18%

Trione Vineyards and Winery 2010 Fortified Zinfandel, Rockpile Peak Vineyard, Sonoma Coast 

What a treat this is. The Trione Vineyards 2010 Fortified Zinfandel from Rockpile Peak Vineyard is well aged at 13 years old! On the nose brandied cherries, chocolate covered raisins, and toffee. It’s rich and heady. On the palate it’s full of lush flavors of chocolate covered cherries, mocha, caramel apple and fruitcake—really high-end fruitcake. Not the kind of fruitcake that gets re-gifted from year to year, but one you’ll want to keep. Warm and luscious with a long mellow finish. Pair it with a roaring fire and a good book—it’s all you need.

ABV 18%

Chardonnay: Varietal of the Month

Chardonnay is planted widely around the world.  It’s sometimes called the chameleon grape given its propensity to display characteristics that reflect the particular climate and region where it’s grown. It can be coy or bold in personality and run the gamut stylistically from rich and creamy to lean and lithe. Hone your palate by tasting a variety of styles and experiment with food parings too to discover the many aspects of Chardonnay.

 Here are capsule reviews of some Chardonnay’s you may find along the Wine Road.

 

Baldassari 2019 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

 

The 2019 Baldassari Chardonnay from Sonoma Coast opens with an array of aromas from bright to savory with notes of citrus, apple, melon, butterscotch and hazelnut. It’s juicy and creamy on the palate with delicate buttery top note and a tropical fruit through line of intense flavor that carries it to a satisfying finish. This classic wine aches for a simple yet classic snack—pop up a big bowl of popcorn and season with truffle salt.

 

ABV 14.2%

$ 

Cast 2021 Chardonnay, Ghianda Rose Vineyard, Mendocino

 

The 2021 Cast Ghianda Rose Vineyard, Chardonnay from Mendocino offers a frisson of flavor with a distinct zing that makes me think of Chenin. The lovely light nose is full of cucumber, lemon zest, and melon. On the palate it’s juicy with ripe peach, crisp apple, pineapple, white nectarine and a savory note of hazelnut. Balanced and bright, it has a long creamy finish with a pop of red grapefruit and lemon zest that persists to the end. Try this with spicy beef or chicken empanadas. 

 

ABV 13.5 %

$38

 

Dutton Estate 2020 Chardonnay Warrens Collection, RRV

 

An earthly delight, the 2020 Dutton Estate Warrens Collection Chardonnay from Russian River Valley is complex and delicious. On the nose, aromas of melon, mango, yellow apple and a grounding note of coriander. The palate is creamy and pert with luscious caramelized pineapple, lemon zest, white peach, and a trace of salty almond. A long seamless finish deepens with each sip. Pair with a classic roast chicken and extra cheesy potatoes au gratin.

 

ABV 14.1%

$56

 

Ektimo 2018 Chardonnay RRV

 

Inhale deeply from the Ektimo 2018 Chardonnay, Russian River Valley for a rush of scents from lemon curd, grapefruit, and apricot to an exciting floral bouquet comprised of citrus and apple blossoms. On the palate a pleasing blend of apple white nectarine, almond brittle and a creamy finish with notes of pear and honeydew melon. Great overall balance and lift of flavor. Pair with something elegant, rich and savory, like poached salmon with hollandaise. 

 

ABV 13.0%

$28

The Meeker Vineyard 2021 Gamboge Chardonnay, North Coast

 

The Meeker Vineyard 2021 Gamboge Chardonnay from the North Coast, is best described as full of moxie and style. The wine presents with an energetic mix of flavors and aromas that is nothing short of thrilling. On the nose, persimmon, chalk, buttery croissant, honey almond and gooseberry. The palate is rich with notes of peach, nectarine and almond butter which gives the mid palate a pleasing weight and presence. The long tangy finish has an endnote of cedar and crushed rocks. It sounds like a there’s a lot going from this tasting note, but it’s truly a harmonic convergence of flavor and nuance. Pair chicken enchiladas.  

 

ABV 12.9%

$29

 

Pedroncelli 2021 Chardonnay, Dry Creek Valley

 

The Pedroncelli Signature Selection, 2021 Chardonnay, from Dry Creek Valley is light and balanced and thoroughly enjoyable. On the nose, tropical notes of banana, coconut, cream, and peaches with a touch of sweet pineapple. The juicy palate has both bright and plush aspects– creamsicle like, with notes of peach, ginger, chalk and a note that hovers at mid-palate which is reminiscent of coconut cream pie. The finish is crisp, clean, tangy and ultimately quenching. Pair with charcuterie board of meats and cheeses along with good crusty bread, and invite some good friends over to enjoy it all. 

 

ABV 14.0%

$20

 

Sonoma Jones 2019 Chardonnay RRV

 

This 2019 Sonoma Jones Chardonnay from Russian River Valley is a second label entry from Viszlay Vineyards that pays homage to the Jones side of the family. It has pleasing rich aromas of creamy peach, Asian pear and toasty brioche. On the palate it’s lifted and bright with notes of grapefruit and lemon curd and crème brulee. As it opens and warms in the glass, it reveals a distinct note of caramelized peanuts that reminded me of an exotic old school treat called French Burnt Peanuts, crunchy red clusters of buttery delight! Balanced and easy drinking, pair with a spicy chicken jambalaya.

 

ABV 14.4%

$38

Woodenhead 2019 Chardonnay Piper Ranch Manchester Ridge, Mendocino Ridge AVA

 

This 2019 Woodenhead Chardonnay from Piper Ranch, Manchester Ridge in Mendocino is best described as Rubenesque —plump, carnal, fleshy and full of light. 

A gorgeous scent fills the glass with notes of ambrosia that includes coconut, melon, banana, mandarin and a whiff of butterscotch. On the palate, full lush flavors of lemon curd, white peach, guava, vanilla, and caramel flan. Deeply delicious it’s a captivating foray into what a site specific Chardonnay can deliver. Pair with Psychic Pie inspired mushroom, goat cheese, lemon pizza. 

 

ABV 13.6%

$46

Chardonnay: Varietal of the Month

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most planted white grapes. Its many styles, oaked and unoaked, make it a versatile choice for a variety of pairings. Chardonnay is typically full to medium in body and acidity with low to no tannins. From bold and rich, to lean and lithe it’s guaranteed you’ll find a Chardonnay to suit your palate.

Here are capsule reviews of Chardonnay’s you’ll find along the Wine Road.

Bowman 2018 Chardonnay Russian River Valley 

On the nose the 2018 Bowman Chardonnay has an unmistakable scent of buttered popcorn that opens up to aromas of fresh baked bread, coconut and an intriguing chalky-peach note. Steady acidity carries the lush flavors of gooseberry, vanilla, apple, straw and tomato leaf to the finish. Pair with something rich such as a lobster risotto.

Chalk Hill 2016 Chardonnay Estate Bottled, Chalk HillAppellation, Russian River Valley

Focused and polished, the 2016 Chalk Hill Chardonnay is full-bodied and appealing on many levels from start to finish. Rich scents of vanilla, baked apples, and orange blossom lead seamlessly to a lush mouthful of creamy peach and caramelized pineapple. Beautiful balance of fruit and acid shapes this Chardonnay into an instant classic with good aging potential. Indulge with high-low pairing of potato chips and caviar with dollop of crème fraîche.

Dutton Estate 2015 Chardonnay, Kyndall’s Reserve – DuttonRanch, Russian River Valley  

Bright yellow-gold in color, the 2015 Dutton Estate Kyndall’s Reserve Chardonnay is buoyant with aromas of lemon, peach and vanilla butter cream. Upon opening, the flavors continually shift and change, it’s like a DJ scratching a record back and forth and then—BOOM, the groove drops and everything falls in to place. Rich, full, and satisfying it offers a seamless connection between the fruit and acid with a medley of apple, bosc pear, and zesty lemon on the palate. Pair with crab cakes.

Gary Farrell 2017 Chardonnay Russian River Valley, Sonoma 

Straw pale yellow in color, the 2017 Gary Farrell Chardonnay, Russian River Valley is bursting with an intoxicating array of scents from citrus blossoms, jasmine and lilac to creamy white peach. Structured and balanced with great vibrancy, the initial flavors offer bright zesty lime and tropical notes, followed by a soft finish grounded with rich notes of piecrust and crème brulee. Pair with truffle popcorn! A classic deserves a classic.

Jigar 2015 Chardonnay Peters Vineyard, Russian River Valley,Sonoma

I’ve always liked Chardonnay, but I do admit I’ve ignored its charms over the past few years. Recently my love for the grape was rekindled by this 2015 Jigar Chardonnay from Peters Vineyard in Russian River Valley. It’s a delightful balance of earthy dried apple and spicy carnation on the nose with a lift of lemon curd and creamy peach on the palate and a pop of acidity on the finish. Nice body with a touch of oak that minds it P’s and Q’s. It definitely punches up in its weight class.

Paradise Ridge 2016 Chardonnay, Bazzano Vineyard, Russian River Valley 

In the glass the 2016 Paradise Ridge Chardonnay, Bazzano Vineyard, Russian River Valley glows pale yellow with a slight tinge of green at the edge. Bright, clean and lean the aromas are fresh and fruity bursting with green apple, a touch of lanolin and a lovely lingering white floral scent. White peach flavor predominates at the start, and then segues into honeydew with a light lime finish. Pair with a Croque Monsieur (grilled ham and cheese) or Croque Madame, which is essentially the same as Monsieur sandwich but with an egg sunny side up, on top.

Sbragia Family Vineyards 2018 Chardonnay Home Ranch DryCreek Valley, Sonoma

Gosh this is a nice Chardonnay! Pale straw yellow in the glass, the 2018 Sbragia Chardonnay, Home Ranch Dry Creek Valley presents with butter and vanilla on the nose initially, then gives way to bright notes of lime and mandarin. Full bodied with creamy flavors of white peach, honey, citrus, green apple and tropical fruits make this a pleasant journey from start to finish. Enjoy on it’s own or break out the Brie and crackers for a simple pairing.

Zialena 2017 Chardonnay, Sonoma County 

Lizzo would like this Juice! Bright, rich and plush, with texture in all the right places the 2017 Zialena Chardonnay exhibits the earmarks of a classic. It’s fresh and zesty with flavors of tropical citrus and ripe nectarine, and balanced with notes of toasty marshmallow and butterscotch. Pair with eggplant caponata. 

(Ya-ya-ee, ya-ya-ee….)

This post was first published on Along the Wine Road blog here:
https://www.alongthewineroad.com/chardonnay-varietal-of-the-month/