# Napa Valley Chardonnay (2022)

- **Producer:** Robert Mondavi
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–14 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** quinces, peach, lemon peel, guava, pineapple, white flowers, apple, pear, vanilla, butter, nutmeg, hazelnut, cream

## About this wine

The Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Chardonnay 2022 is a 100% Chardonnay from California's Napa Valley, produced by the historic Robert Mondavi Winery. Established in 1966, the winery was instrumental in shaping the modern California wine industry with a philosophy centered on expressing Napa Valley's terroir and varietal authenticity. This particular vintage draws fruit from diverse vineyard sites within Napa, including the cooler Carneros region and the Wappo Hill vineyard in the Stag's Leap District, aiming for a balanced and complex representation of the appellation. The 2022 growing season was characterized by mild, dry conditions with a notable August heatwave, influencing vineyard management and grape development.

## Interesting facts

- Robert Mondavi Winery was the first major winery built in Napa Valley after Prohibition.
- Grapes are sourced from both cooler Carneros and warmer Stag's Leap District vineyards.
- Partial malolactic fermentation is used to balance acidity and add complexity.
- The wine is aged 'sur lie' for nine months, contributing to its creamy texture.

## Food pairing

The full body and creamy texture of this Chardonnay complement rich dishes. Its balanced acidity cuts through the richness of creamy sauces and fatty proteins, while fruit notes can echo or contrast with ingredients in the dish.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Chardonnay 2022 begins with hand-harvested grapes, pressed gently. Primary fermentation occurs in French oak barrels, with a proportion of new oak. Partial malolactic fermentation is utilized to enhance complexity and balance. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes approximately nine months of aging sur lie, with regular bâtonnage. Fruit for this wine is sourced from distinct Napa Valley vineyard sites, including those in the Carneros and Stag's Leap District appellations.