Chateau Montelena
Chateau Montelena Chardonnay is an iconic white wine that helped put California wines on the global map. This prestigious estate, located in Calistoga, Napa Valley, has been producing exceptional wines since 1882, with its Chardonnay gaining international recognition after winning the famous 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting.
Winemaking
The winemaking process at Chateau Montelena emphasizes minimal intervention to preserve the natural characteristics of the fruit. The Chardonnay grapes are carefully harvested and sorted before gentle pressing. The juice undergoes fermentation in a combination of French oak barrels and stainless steel tanks, with limited malolactic fermentation to maintain freshness and acidity. The wine then ages for approximately 10 months before bottling.
Taste Profile
This Chardonnay showcases the elegance and restraint that Chateau Montelena is known for. The 2020 vintage presents:
- Nose: Fresh citrus, green apple, white peach, and subtle floral notes
- Palate: Meyer lemon, crisp pear, and stone fruit, complemented by hints of vanilla and toasted oak
- Finish: Long and balanced with refreshing minerality and bright acidity
Territory
The vineyards are situated in the northern end of Napa Valley, where the combination of volcanic soil, warm days, and cool nights creates ideal growing conditions. The region's unique microclimate, influenced by Mount Saint Helena and the surrounding hillsides, helps develop optimal ripeness while maintaining crucial acidity in the grapes.
Fun Facts
- The winery's victory at the 1976 Judgment of Paris was featured in the 2008 film "Bottle Shock"
- The historic stone castle that houses the winery was built in 1882 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places
- Chateau Montelena practices sustainable farming and is a Napa Green Certified Winery
- The estate's Chinese garden and lake were created in the 1960s and remain a distinctive feature of the property
