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.
95 Points
Rich and full-bodied, packed with dark fruit flavors of blackberry, ripe plum, and dark cherry. Notes of cocoa, cedar, and warm spice add complexity, while firm tannins and a touch of volcanic minerality reflect the bold characteristics of Calistoga’s terroir. Full-bodied in texture, and remarkably velvety. The tannins gracefully interweave, establishing a flawless equilibrium of acidity and pleasing fruit.
92 Points
Deep floral notes (violets), blackberry, black cherry, and cassis. Driven by the mountain's steep, cool-climate terroir, it balances rich notes of blackberry and pomegranate seamlessly intertwined with dark plum, cocoa dust, and roasted mocha, hints of roasted mocha and spice undertones add depth to its complex profile, culminating in a bold, yet elegant finish.
95 Points
This stellar Napa Valley Red Blend marries lush plum and cherry with Malbec's dark berry depth and Petit Verdot's structure and spice. Layered with notes of blackberry, violet, and cocoa, this silky wine finishes with smooth tannins and a whisper of toasted oak. Robust and mouth-filling, with spicy nuances, smooth tannins, firm structure, and a long lingering finish.
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