Appearance: Brilliant pale gold with glints of green
Nose: Inviting aromas of fresh Asian pear, Golden Delicious apple, and Meyer lemon zest with elegant floral notes of white blossom and honeysuckle. Subtle hints of vanilla, toasted brioche, and wet stone minerality add complexity.
Palate: Medium-bodied with a beautiful tension between richness and acidity. Crisp citrus and orchard fruit flavors mingle with delicate notes of lemon curd, light toast, and a touch of almond. The cool-climate character of Carneros shows through with vibrant acidity and distinct mineral notes that provide structure and freshness.
Finish: Long and clean with lingering citrus, subtle oak spice, and a refreshing saline minerality characteristic of the Carneros region
Producer: Black Stallion Estate Winery (owned by Delicato Family Wines) Appellation: Los Carneros, Napa Valley, California Vintage: 2022 Varietal: 100% Chardonnay Vineyard Sources: Select vineyards throughout the Los Carneros AVA Soil: Shallow clay loam soils with high marine sediment content Climate: Cool maritime climate with strong influence from San Pablo Bay Harvest: Hand-harvested in the cool early morning hours Fermentation: Barrel fermented with select lots in stainless steel Malolactic Fermentation: Partial to maintain freshness while adding textural complexity Aging: 8-10 months in French oak barrels (approximately 25-30% new) Alcohol: 13.8% ABV Production: Limited production Suggested drinking window: 2023-2027
Black Stallion Estate Winery takes its name from the historic equestrian center that once occupied their Napa Valley property. While their estate is located in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley, this Chardonnay comes from the cooler Los Carneros region that straddles the southern portions of both Napa and Sonoma counties.
Los Carneros is renowned for producing exceptional Chardonnay thanks to its unique terroir. The region's proximity to San Pablo Bay brings cooling fog and maritime breezes that create a perfect environment for slow, even ripening. This results in Chardonnay with bright natural acidity, moderate alcohol levels, and expressive aromatics.
The 2022 vintage in Los Carneros benefited from a relatively mild growing season with few heat spikes. Morning fog and afternoon breezes maintained the region's characteristically cool climate, leading to optimal flavor development while preserving crucial acidity. These conditions produced Chardonnay with excellent balance between fruit expression and structural elements.
Best served chilled but not too cold, approximately 50-55°F (10-13°C), to fully express the wine's complex aromatics and flavors. If stored in a refrigerator, remove 15-20 minutes before serving.
