On Sale: $16.94 (was: $19.94)*
The Central Coast is the unsung hero of California Chardonnay, and nobody seems to represent the sweet spot of quality, value, and style in this rugged AVA better than Calera. While Calera’s reputation among insiders has been built on their single vineyard designates (“California’s Romanee-Conti” per Parker), the real secret is their lineup of entry level wines, which Galloni has called “even more remarkable.”
Calera’s classic 2018 Chardonnay from the Central Coast is a perfect exercise in balance that would be equally delicious on its own or with food. Previous vintages have been hailed as an “excellent value in California Chardonnay” (Parker) and the 2018 vintage follows suit.
When founder Josh Jensen returned from Burgundy in 1971 he set out looking for vineyard land that was as close to the Cote d’Or as possible. That took him to the limestone-rich Central Coast, and not Napa like many of his contemporaries. Since that time Calera has been a serious leader in cool climate Pinot and Chardonnay, and are indisputably a Central Coast blue-chip!
Calera’s seriously affordable Central Coast Chardonnay is an unpretentious, lip smacking good wine to enjoy all year round. With great balance and personality for well under 20 bucks a bottle, lock in a case now. Cheers!
Winemaker notes: "Showcasing the vibrant charm of Chardonnay grown on the cool, windswept Central Coast, this wine displays enticing aromas of lemon zest, green apple, cedar and passionfruit. On the palate, mouthcoating waves of tropical fruit are balanced by a beam of natural acidity, with French oak-inspired hints of toasted brioche emerging on the finish."
*Offer publication date August 25, 2021. Pricing and availability subject to change.