Vintage: The growing season started out with warm temperatures in the late winter and early spring, triggering early bud break. Colder temperatures in May slowed grape development, which coupled with the fourth year of drought, resulted in fewer grapes in 2015. The harvest was one of our earliest in memory with berries smaller than usual but packed with flavor and color.

Vineyard: Our Chardonnay thrives in our American Canyon and Carneros vineyards in the southern tip of Napa Valley, near San Pablo Bay, which spills into the San Francisco Bay. The cool maritime breezes and morning fog allow the grapes to slowly ripen to develop complex flavors while maintaining a bright, natural acidity. We farm all of our vineyards naturally, without artificial pesticides or herbicides, and they are certified organic.

The Wine: Miljenko “Mike” Grgich has been called “The King of Chardonnay” since the winery began in 1977, and you can taste why in this classically-styled wine. We did not allow the Chardonnay to undergo malolactic fermentation, preserving its natural acidity.

Winemaker’s Notes: Our estate Napa Valley Chardonnay is the quintessential representation of Miljenko “Mike” Grgich in a glass. This wine exudes a lively bouquet of freshly squeezed citrus and delicate floral notes. The palate reveals rich flavors of Fuji apples, a hint of ripe pear and stone fruit, progressing seamlessly to a long, elegant finish. The Chardonnay’s beautifully balanced acidity makes this a perfect wine for aging in your cellar or is delicious now for your next dinner party. Enjoy with herb-crusted pork ribs, grilled chicken, Caesar salad or poached salmon.