As the first 2009 wines from California start to appear on the market, it is becoming clear that this was a pretty special vintage in California. It may be too early to tell for some of the later ripening varieties like Cab and Syrah, but for Pinot and Chardonnay 2009 looks to be stellar. So we were very excited to get our hands on an allocation of Trinitas Cellars’ 2009 Carneros Chardonnay. Just to clear up any confusion, we did offer Trinitas’ 2009 Proprietor’s Reserve Chard a few months ago, but this is a different version of their Carneros Chardonnay, and it will really please fans of big, bold California Chards.
The 2009 Trinitas Cellars Carneros Chardonnay is pale straw in color. The nose shows aromas of lemon, ginger, and oak, opening to reveal apple and poached pear. The palate is classic California Chardonnay, with apple, lemon, and plenty of toasty, smoky oak. This is rich and fleshy, coating the palate and showing a long, round finish without any hard edges. All these big, powerful flavors scream out for a rich food paring like pasta with cream sauce, lobster with butter, or even just creamy Brie cheese. Put this one on your Christmas shopping list for any fan of California Chardonnay!
Appellation: Carneros, Napa Valley
Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Acidity: 0.68g
pH: 3.66
Alcohol: 14.4%
Aging: 100% new American Oak for 9 months, Cold Barrel Rermented at 46-48°F;
sur lie aged, 100% malolactic fermentation.
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94 Points
Juice explodes right out of the glass with its dark purple in color and bursting aromas of black cherry jam, boysenberry, raspberry and wild cherry interlaced with hints of baking spice, espresso bean, and toasted nut. The palate is ripe and juicy with flavors of dark cherry, huckleberry and raspberry perfectly integrated with notes of spice, dark chocolate, and a kiss of toasty oak.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.
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