# Schug Estate Chardonnay (2016)

- **Producer:** Schug Carneros Estate Winery
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.1%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 10–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** citrus, apricot, peach, lemon, pastry, cloves, butter, vanilla, honey, dried apricot, almond

## About this wine

The Schug Estate Chardonnay is a single-vineyard wine from Schug Carneros Estate Winery, located in Sonoma County's Carneros AVA. The estate vineyard, established in 1989, is planted with various Chardonnay clones, including Wente and 'Musqué', contributing to the wine's complexity. The winery was founded by Walter Schug, who brought European winemaking experience to California, establishing a legacy of quality focused on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Carneros region's cool climate and marine influence are key factors in the grape's development.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyard planted in 1989.
- Features both Wente and 'Musqué' clones.
- Walter Schug previously helped launch Insignia.
- Focus on European winemaking traditions.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and richness complement richer dishes, while its acidity cuts through creamy sauces and fatty proteins. Delicate seafood is enhanced by the wine's fruit notes and balanced structure.

## Wine making process

The Schug Estate Chardonnay is produced using a block-by-block fermentation approach. The wine undergoes barrel fermentation and is aged on its lees ('sur-lie') in small French oak barrels, with limited use of new oak. Malolactic fermentation is not induced, preserving the wine's natural acidity. Cover crops are utilized as part of the vineyard's farming practices.