Crisp and clean. Pear and nice acidity. Definitely feel the ☀️. This is a perfect glass. — 7 months ago
Golgotha - Scholium Project 2010.
Widowmaker Block Hudson Vineyards.
Abe, the man who would be king, gifted this bottle (amongst many others) to me after being an Intern in 2013. They travelled from Napa to London to Western Australia.
15 years later on a Monday night of a week I wasn’t meant to be drinking…
I pulled it out of the wine fridge in Margaret River. Cork fresh as a daisy and some decent sediment on first pour. Aerated with Vinturi and poured. Some early VA blew away and a Star Was Born. The floral powderiness on my mid palate is intoxicating. Never before have I tasted a big inky, 15% delicate ballerina like this. So glad I opened it alone so we can have a week together understanding each other. Has to be Petite Syrah. Wine study X 1000 ♥️ Pretty Pimpin — a year ago
Chappellet – Grower Collection Chardonnay – 2023 🇺🇸
Sangiacomo Vineyard – Carneros AVA, Sonoma/Carneros, California, USA
Overview
A brilliant expression of Carneros Chardonnay, crafted by Phillip Corallo-Titus as part of Chappellet’s distinguished Grower Collection. Sourced from the famed Sangiacomo Vineyard, this bottling captures the cool-climate precision, natural richness, and textural beauty the region is known for.
A polished and impeccably layered Chardonnay, shaped by 70% malolactic fermentation and thoughtful French oak integration.
Aromas & Flavors
A captivating aromatic profile of orange zest, lemon custard, nectarine, honeydew melon, and tropical white flowers. Subtle notes of nutmeg, vanilla, and warm spice glide in from the oak, lending complexity without overshadowing the fruit.
Mouthfeel
Creamy yet vibrant , the best of both worlds.
Bright citrus, kiwi, guava, and fresh pineapple weave across a supple, mouth-filling palate. A fine line of acidity maintains tension and lift, while hints of brioche add depth on a long, elegant finish.
Food Pairings
Ideal with seared scallops, lemon-thyme roast chicken, creamy lobster pasta, crab cakes, mushroom risotto, or soft-ripened cheeses. A versatile food wine with both brightness and richness.
Verdict
A standout Chardonnay and one of the most compelling examples from Carneros and all of California. Balanced, complex, and beautifully sculpted, a Chardonnay that speaks with equal parts grace and power.
Did You Know?
Sangiacomo Vineyard is one of California’s most respected Chardonnay sites, farmed by a family with over 90 years of viticultural heritage. Their Carneros parcels consistently deliver fruit of remarkable precision and purity, a key reason top producers like Chappellet source from them.
🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
Undeniably one of my favorite Chardonnays across Sonoma, Napa, and beyond. Elegant, expressive, and impeccably crafted, the kind of wine that reminds you why Carneros Chardonnay remains iconic. Cheers! — 4 months ago
Good not great. Raspberries prominent, light-medium weight. — 4 months ago
Smooth and warm. Would pair well with a sharp cheese or a spicy curry — 5 months ago
Pretty pale pink; peach and lemon on the nose; grenadine, lemonade flavor — 6 months ago
Clear purple tinted burgundy color with notes of cedar, cherry, and baking spice. — 10 months ago
Andrea Watt
Black cherry, mushroom, and vanilla with a touch of oak. Rich but not overpowering. It’s smooth enough to drink alone but has enough acidity to stand up to food. — 2 months ago