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1998 Robert Mondavi Winery Woodbridge Chardonnay

California,
$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen
Closure: Cork
Notes sourced from Robert Mondavi

“The 1998 vintage culminated in one of the latest harvests we’ve had in years,” reported David Akiyoshi, Director of Winemaking for Woodbridge Winery. “We finished picking our grapes from the Lodi region on November 7th. It was an interesting year, challenging at times, but the weather became increasingly better as the growing season progressed. Warm sunny fall days provided us with excellent ripening conditions and we achieved fully mature flavors and excellent sugar to acid balance in the grapes. Our yields were smaller than average on many varieties due to cool, wet weather during bloom and berry set. The small crop had great concentration of flavors, giving our Chardonnay lush fruit character.”

Nearly half of the grapes were selected from the Lodi - San Joaquin Delta region surrounding the winery. The Lodi AVA (American Viticultural Area) -- one of the first appellations to be officially recognized in California -- is nestled between the Delta Region and the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. These grapes gave the 1998 vintage aromatic apple and pear flavors with a round, rich mouth feel. To complement these flavors, the balance of the grapes were harvested from California’s Central Coast appellation, focusing on Monterey County. Pacific Ocean winds and a nightly blanket of marine fog cool these vineyards and extend the days of ripening, creating perfect conditions for Chardonnay vines. These grapes contributed lush tropical fruit notes and crisp acidity to this wine.

Tasting Note: The 1998 Woodbridge Chardonnay has a melange of vibrant flavors reflecting grapes selected from several distinctive California appellations. Vivid fruit flavors reminiscent of pear, tropical fruit, citrus and apple culminate in a soft, lingering finish. The classic Burgundian technique of barrel fermentation adds spicy oak notes while the partial malolactic fermentation and sur lie (on the yeast) aging enhances the wine’s round, creamy flavors. Enjoy this Chardonnay with a wide variety of lighter meats, including fish, chicken, pork and veal. Our favorite pairings include grilled halibut or tiger prawns drizzled with lemon olive oil and chives; Caesar salad crowned with mesquite-grilled chicken breasts or creamy pasta with artichoke hearts.
Alc/Vol: 13.0%