Stag's Leap Wine Cellars : Karia Chardonnay 2023

Characteristics and Tasting Advice for the Karia Chardonnay 2023 from Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Tasting

Nose
The bouquet reveals an enticing aromatic palette dominated by notes of ripe melon and juicy peach, enhanced by hints of honeysuckle and citrus blossom. Nuances of apricot complete this fruity and floral expression.

Palate
The attack is lively and vibrant, unveiling a harmonious array of fruity flavors accompanied by a delicate touch of hazelnut. Subtle notes of vanilla and oak provide depth and complexity, while perfectly integrated acidity ensures balance and freshness. The savory finish lingers long with persistent citrus accents.

Food and Wine Pairings

This Chardonnay pairs perfectly with grilled chicken served with lemon aioli, grilled salmon topped with a cucumber, tomato and fresh dill salsa, or a roasted chicken breast stuffed with spinach and feta.

Serving and Cellaring

The Karia Chardonnay 2023 is ideally enjoyed at a serving temperature between 10 and 12°C. Best enjoyed by around 2027.

A graceful Napa Valley Chardonnay from premier Californian terroirs

The Estate

Founded in 1970, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars has established itself as one of the most emblematic estates in Napa Valley, California. The estate gained worldwide renown in 1976 when its 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon S.L.V. won the famous Judgment of Paris. Today led by chief winemaker Marcus Notaro since 2013, the estate stands out for its signature style combining power and elegance.

The Vineyard

The Karia Chardonnay comes from carefully selected vineyards in the southern part of Napa Valley, California, spread across Atlas Peak District (42%), Carneros (35%), Arcadia (14%) and Bravo Zulu (8%). These cool-climate terroirs benefit from optimal conditions for expressing Chardonnay, offering the freshness and minerality characteristic of this cuvée.

The Wine

This Napa Valley wine owes its uniqueness to its name derived from the Greek word meaning “graceful.” Indeed, the KARIA cuvée (pronounced Kar-ee-ah) is crafted from vineyards located within the cool climates of southern Napa Valley, giving rise to wines that are lively, fresh and underscored by a delicate note of oak spice and ripe fruit.

The Vintage

The 2023 vintage ranks among the coolest growing seasons in Napa Valley of the past decade. The late bud break in mid-April, followed by a cool flowering and a slow, steady ripening, helped preserve the freshness and balance of the grapes harvested between September 18 and October 12.

Winemaking and Aging

The Karia Chardonnay 2023 benefits from a fruit-respecting winemaking process, with 96% aged in French oak barrels (37% new) and 4% in stainless steel tanks. Only 10% of the juices undergo malolactic fermentation, thus preserving the grape’s natural liveliness. Seven months of lees aging with monthly bâtonnage adds roundness and complexity while maintaining aromatic purity.

Grape Varieties

The Blend consists of 98% Chardonnay complemented by 2% Muscat Canelli, bringing an additional floral dimension to the whole.