La Pitchoune Chardonnay Revolte Sonoma Coast 2018

Tracy and Peter Joachim Nielsen were inspired by a small family property in the south of France named "la pitchoune", or "the little one." The name speaks to small production, small lots, and the idea that small size is the greatest asset…with a scant few hundred cases made, this Sonoma Coast chardonnay is a great find that always over-delivers. Sourced from two prime vineyards in the Sonoma Coast, Falcon Crest (near the town of Graton) and the legendary Pratt Vineyard near Sebastopol. Both vineyards lie a mere 6 miles from the Pacific Ocean, with Falcon planted to Wente clones (California heritage clones originally selected from Montrachet vines in Burgundy) and Pratt relying on Robert Young and Mt. Eden chardonnay clones.

With enticing aromas of lemon verbena, mandarin blossom, river rock and bread dough, this wine starts with a subtle attraction that soon turns to a plush lustiness – loaded with yellow plums, gala apples, ocean spray, and roasted fennel. The wine deftly balances an Old World homage with the purity of character that California demands of its grapes…respecting both, yet submissive to neither.

The wine is crafted to make a style of wine Robert Parker described as “impressive, Burgundian-style Chardonnay (think Bâtard-Montrachet)” -- through picking grapes on the early side to retain acidity and freshness, fermenting and aging in mostly used French oak barrels, bottling unfined and unfiltered, and aging the wine at least an extra year in bottle before release. The wine ages 16 months in barrel, with only 10% new oak. This is a complex and age-worthy Cali-chardonnay, with a perfect balance of brightness and weight that should allow this to develop harmoniously over the next 7 years or so. Spectacular now, and at this remarkable price, sure to be snatched up quickly! Get it while it lasts!

PAIRING IDEAS: I once dated a girl who didn’t like tacos...obviously, it didn’t work out. Who doesn’t like tacos?!?! These shrimp tacos are the perfect fit for this crisp and layered chardonnay.

MUSIC SUGGESTIONS: Balance is key...in chardonnay, but also in music. A little bit o’ twang, a dollop of rock, and a touch of Southern blues makes Chris Stapleton’s “When The Stars Come Out” a genre-defying hit.