# Carneros Chardonnay (2022)

- **Producer:** Gloria Ferrer
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Average price:** €42
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** lemon, green apple, lilac, white florals

## About this wine

The 2022 Carneros Chardonnay from Gloria Ferrer is a 100% Chardonnay from the Carneros AVA in Sonoma County, California. Founded in 1986 by the Ferrer family, Gloria Ferrer was the first sparkling wine house in the region. The winery's distinctive approach to Chardonnay is rooted in a multi-decade clonal research program with UC Davis, initiated in 1988, which evaluates numerous clones to identify those best suited to Carneros' soils and microclimates. This program aims to enhance minerality and control fruit character. The Carneros AVA itself, influenced by the cooling San Pablo Bay, is crucial for preserving the grapes' natural acidity. The 2022 vintage is noted by the winery for its vibrant and balanced profile.

## Interesting facts

- Gloria Ferrer was the first sparkling wine house in Carneros.
- The winery has a 30+ year clonal research program with UC Davis.
- Carneros' proximity to San Pablo Bay is key to grape acidity.
- The winery is named after Gloria Ferrer, wife of founder Josep Ferrer.

## Food pairing

The wine's high acidity and vibrant citrus notes cut through the richness of creamy sauces and fatty fish, while its minerality complements the delicate flavors of seafood and poultry. The crisp apple and lemon notes create a refreshing contrast or complement to lighter dishes.

## Wine making process

The 2022 Carneros Chardonnay is crafted by Gloria Ferrer, with Head Winemaker Kyle Altomare overseeing production. A key aspect of the winery's approach is its extensive clonal research program, conducted in partnership with UC Davis since 1988. This program has identified and evaluated over 40 Chardonnay clones to select those best suited for the Carneros region, aiming for pronounced minerality and restrained fruit character. The wine is described as 'stainless steel–crafted,' suggesting fermentation and aging in stainless steel tanks to preserve the grape's natural freshness, vibrant acidity, and delicate floral and citrus notes. The Carneros AVA's unique microclimate, influenced by San Pablo Bay, plays a vital role in maintaining the grapes' acidity.