Philosophy

Domaine Chandon is best known as one of America’s top sparkling wines. Less known is the winery also produces limited quantities of varietal wines from our estate vineyards. These wines are crafted by drawing on experience with the traditional Champagne varietals and by showcasing select parcels from its Carneros ranch, where Domaine Chandon was among the pioneering growers and vintners of the region.

The Carneros terrain is marked by well-drained, rolling hills sloping to San Pablo Bay. The proximity of the bay moderates the vineyard microclimate with morning and evening fog and afternoon breezes. The cool, extended growing season is ideal for Chardonnay and provides longer hang time essential for complexity, finesse and intense aromatics and flavor.

Vintage Notes

The 2010 vintage was very cool with the exception of a few hot weekends. This allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and over a long time. Ultimately, this resulted in grapes with wonderful acidity, small yields and concentrated flavors.

Tasting Notes

Aromas of white peach, honey pear and jasmine lead to tropical fruit flavors on the palate. This Chardonnay has exceptional balance with a long, round finish that has just the right amount of oak influence.

Food and Wine Pairing

Nearly any type of fish, from Petrale sole spritzed with fresh lemon juice to seared halibut will be a complementary partner to this wine. Chinese chicken salad, sautéed eggplant with soy sauce and hummus with toasted pita are all delicious food choices as well.