Chardonnay continues to be America’s favorite wine, out-selling Cabernet Sauvignon, its nearest competitor. Since the 4th of July tends to be warm, no matter where you watch fireworks, Chardonnay might be your go-to wine and the 2015 Sonoma-Loeb Envoy is a great addition to your Independence Day portfolio. 100% Chardonnay from the highly respected Sangiocomo Vineyard in the cooler Carneros region, this land has been farmed since 1927 mainly as a pear orchard, then grapes went in in 1980. That a pear component to this wine seems evident, that would be no surprise given the fertile soil seems to have memory. The Envoy is immensely pleasurable offering honeysuckle, lychee, guava, blood orange, apricot and back notes of baked brioche, warm graham cracker crust and yes, even a hint of tropical Mai Tai. This is a silky, buttery, elegant Chardonnay with a touch of back-palate acidity to warrant food consideration, or as an aperitif.
Average Price: $38/ 750ML
Alcohol: 14.1%
Pair With: Traditional Croque Madame; Panko breaded sand dabs with lemon and garlic; Buttermilk fried chicken; Broccoli and bacon quiche.
Availability: Limited, 973 cases.
Website: www.Sonoma-Loeb.com