Plumpjack is greatness...plain and simple. Begun in 1973 by proprietors James and Anne McWilliams, the vineyard and winery rapidly gained attention for producing dynamic, long-lived wines, with particular emphasis on the estate and reserve Cabernet Sauvignons. Their Oakville vineyard has a wide diversity of soils reflective of its special position at the base of the Vaca Range, making it a unique marriage of a hillside vineyard and a classic valley floor site.
But we would not do the winery justice if we did not mention their incredible Chardonnay. Where many California Chardonnays are aged in 100% new barrels and go through secondary fermentation, Plumpjack ferments 65% of their Chardonnay in stainless steel, and this portion of the wine does not go through the secondary fermentation. What you get is a wine so layered and complex that it can take some time to unpack.
The 2022 PlumpJack Chardonnay boasts aromatics of baked pear and apple layered with tropical notes of kiwi, lychee, and melon, while still allowing the more delicate aromas of white peach and honeysuckle to shine through. The palate has ample weight and a creaminess reminiscent of a lemon curd, which is beautifully balanced by a bright and lively acidity that lends this wine it’s energy and length.
But we would not do the winery justice if we did not mention their incredible Chardonnay. Where many California Chardonnays are aged in 100% new barrels and go through secondary fermentation, Plumpjack ferments 65% of their Chardonnay in stainless steel, and this portion of the wine does not go through the secondary fermentation. What you get is a wine so layered and complex that it can take some time to unpack.
The 2022 PlumpJack Chardonnay boasts aromatics of baked pear and apple layered with tropical notes of kiwi, lychee, and melon, while still allowing the more delicate aromas of white peach and honeysuckle to shine through. The palate has ample weight and a creaminess reminiscent of a lemon curd, which is beautifully balanced by a bright and lively acidity that lends this wine it’s energy and length.
Overall Rating
0 out of 5 Based on 0 Review
