Sarah’s Vineyard’s 2021 Estate Chardonnay from the Dwarf Oak Vineyard in the Santa Clara Valley AVA is a fine example of Californian Chardonnay pedigree. The cuvée is crafted from hand-harvested grapes grown in estate vineyards, with meticulous attention to viticulture and selective harvesting to retain vibrant freshness. The 2021 vintage experienced a balanced growing season, allowing for an appealing blend of ripe orchard fruit and refreshing acidity. Traditional barrel fermentation and moderate aging on the lees impart delicate notes of vanilla, butter, and subtle toast, while preserving the grape’s signature citrus and apple-laden character. The wine’s pale golden hue foreshadows a lively bouquet of green apple, pear, and lemon blossom, complemented by hints of hazelnut and a gentle, creamy texture on the palate.
Santa Clara Valley, known as one of California’s oldest winegrowing regions, benefits from a Mediterranean climate. The AVA’s warm days tempered by cool marine breezes from nearby Monterey Bay allow Chardonnay grapes to ripen fully while maintaining crisp acidity. The region’s alluvial soils composed of gravel, sand, and clay enhance drainage and provide nuanced minerality to the wines. Santa Clara’s viticultural history dates back to Spanish missions in the late 18th century, and today, it is praised for producing sophisticated, well-structured wines with a sense of place.
This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes thanks to its balance of richness and freshness. Enjoy it alongside classic roast chicken, grilled lobster with lemon butter, or a creamy seafood risotto. For a local California accent, pair it with fresh Dungeness crab or artichoke gratin. Its rounded acidity and subtle oak nuances also complement roast pork with apple or soft-ripened cheeses such as Brie and Camembert.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Chardonnay chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10-12°C. If possible, open the bottle a few minutes before serving to allow the wine’s aromatic complexity to unfold. This cuvée is drinking beautifully now but can develop additional depth with one or two more years of cellaring.
