Freddy R. Troya

9.4

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! — 10 days ago

ESF

9.1

confirming note from 6 months ago - this is a winner — 5 months ago

Lauren Golanty

8.9

Good not great. Raspberries prominent, light-medium weight. — 7 days ago

Alexandre Pagliano

9.2

Crisp, citrusy and with great acidity and freshness. This is one of the best and finest blanc de blancs from an independent grower we know: Rodolphe Peters does truly great champagne. — 2 months ago

with Jose, veronique and 1 other

Jim Stehli

9.3

Crisp and clean. Pear and nice acidity. Definitely feel the ☀️. This is a perfect glass. — 4 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.3

A superb aromatic 100% Chardonnay, the V. 2022 Grower Collection is entirely sourced from the Calesa Vineyard by the Petaluma Gap, situated in the coolest parts of Sonoma County where Chard ripens slowly, developing pure, vibrant flavors and ideal acidity. They grow Chards from Clones Robert Young, and Burgundian Dijons.

This particular Chard wakes up all senses with its vibrant notes of lemon meringue, some ripened lychees, and baked guava. On the palate is respectfully complex, baked stony fruits in the mid-range and the lemon and mandarine peels continue to dominate to the back-end of the tongue.

Mouthfeel overall, pleasant, savory on soft spices, creamy thanks to its 100% MLF, and enticing oak touch coming from the 35% new French oak the wine was seating on. Great price point considering the quantity produced (1,200 cases) and where it comes from. Cheers! — 7 months ago

Mary Perrotta

9.0

Smooth and warm. Would pair well with a sharp cheese or a spicy curry — a month ago

JH

9.0

Pretty pale pink; peach and lemon on the nose; grenadine, lemonade flavor — 3 months ago

Paul J

9.4

I’m not a big Pinot fan or drinker, but this was very nice! Dark fruit with earth and integrated sweetness. Medium plus depth. — 4 months ago

with Geoff

Andrea Watt

9.1

Clear purple tinted burgundy color with notes of cedar, cherry, and baking spice. — 6 months ago