Aromas of apricot, cantaloupe, and quince combine with hints of lemon thyme and cinnamon. A rich entry is countered by balancing acidity on the mid-palate and a distinctive, slightly saline, oyster shell quality providing both length and breadth in the finish.

Vineyard Notes

Dating back to its first use in 1849, “Chardenet” was the original spelling for the Chardonnay grape in France. Carneros Hills Winery produces limited amounts of vineyard designated wines under this name: one from the Durell Vineyard and one from Coteau Blanc, which is comprised of several choice blocks located within the Carneros Hills Vineyard.

The Coteau Blanc vineyard sits on a higher elevation ridge overlooking the San Pablo/San Francisco bay. South of the Carneros district, clay loam soils are interlaced with the rare and unusual white limestone, as well as river cobble. The vineyard’s undulating hillsides and steep slopes contain multiple exposures.

The delicacy and transparency derived from the limestone is unquestionable. Bright, mouthwatering acidity is the hallmark of Coteau Blanc Chardonnay.