Arista Winery : Chardonnay 2018

A lively and balanced Chardonnay from California

The producer

Dedication, focus and determination are the cornerstones of the Arista Winery. Founded in 2002, the McWilliams family take great pride in tending to their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines. The winery overlooks California’s picturesque Russian River Valley and Anderson Valley. The McWillimams’ sons, Ben and Mark, took over the running of the family estate in 2012 and continue to produce exquisite wines.

The vineyard

Arista Winery reigns over a 36-acre vineyard that is managed using sustainable farming practices. The vineyard is composed of 9 acres of Pinot Noir vines and 1-acre of Chardonnay vines and leads to the production of fine California wines. For the teams, working alongside nature is crucial and is at the very heart of their philosophy.

The wine

Arista Winery’s 2018 Chardonnay wine truly showcases the immense potential of the Russian River Valley appellation in Sonoma County.

Vinification and aging

The grapes are sorted by hand and undergo a gentle press. Fermentation takes place in French oak barrels, using native yeast. Occasional battonage during the first 2 to 3 months. Fermentation lasts 12 months. The wine is aged in 20% new oak which enabled the terroir to authentically express itself. The blends are assembled and placed into stainless-steel tanks, where they remain for 6 months.

The blend

Chardonnay (100%).

Arista Winery’s 2018 Chardonnay : Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Color
Pale lemon color.

Nose
This Chardonnay wine by Arista exudes aromas of pear, lemon and white flowers on the nose.

Palate
The mouth-watering acidity blends harmoniously with flavors of lemon.