Cuvaison Estate Grown Chardonnay 2023

Concentrated and soft Chardonnay with a smooth, low-acidity profile

Solid 4/5 for me, and this is their entry-level Chardonnay! The nose is full of warm spices, robust butter, and delicate fruit notes. The acidity is medium, and the body is full-bodied with no discernible tannins. The fruit layers are well-balanced, with stone fruits and pear notes, and a trace of oak. The close is shorter than expected, but the all around impact is a solid wine that's easy to drink and tailored for everyday consumption. If you enjoy oaky Chardonnays, you'll likely appreciate this entry-level offering.

Second bottle of 2018 Carneros Chardonnay proved to be a contenting pairing for my mushroom, bacon & parmesan gnocchi. The wine's rich lemon glow and aromatic nose featured tones of pineapple, peach, and toasted bread, complementing the dish's opulent flavors. The tartness was bright and well-balanced, meanwhile the body was medium in weight. The tail was long and satisfying, with undertones of caramel, walnut, and dried apple.