Chardonnay Platt Vineyard 2020 – Failla Wines

The Chardonnay Platt Vineyard 2020 by Failla Wines stands as a testament to the exquisite potential of California’s Sonoma Coast, particularly the revered Platt Vineyard, known for its remarkable terroir that imparts unique qualities to the Chardonnay grapes grown on its land. This vintage captures the essence of the vineyard’s coastal influences, meticulous vineyard management, and the thoughtful winemaking philosophy of Failla Wines, which together produce a wine of unparalleled elegance and complexity.

Situated mere miles from the Pacific Ocean, Platt Vineyard benefits from the cool, maritime climate that defines the Sonoma Coast. The foggy mornings and cool afternoons are ideal for Chardonnay, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly while preserving their natural acidity. The vineyard’s soil, rich in Goldridge loam over sandstone, drains well and stresses the vines just enough to concentrate the flavors in the grapes. The 2020 vintage was particularly notable for its balance of sunny days and cool, foggy nights, leading to a growing season that was both challenging and rewarding, with a harvest that showcased the quality and character of the fruit.

The Chardonnay Platt Vineyard 2020 is a brilliant reflection of its origins, presenting a pale gold color in the glass that hints at the richness and depth of the wine. On the nose, it exudes a sophisticated array of aromas, from ripe pear and crisp green apple to more nuanced notes of jasmine, lemon zest, and a delicate minerality. This wine’s complexity is further elevated by a subtle undercurrent of toasted almonds and vanilla, a nod to the carefully selected French oak barrels used for aging.

Upon tasting, the wine reveals a stunning balance between richness and acidity, a hallmark of well-crafted Chardonnay. The palate is greeted with a luxurious texture that carries flavors of stone fruit, citrus, and a hint of brioche, all harmonizing with the wine’s bright acidity and mineral core. The finish is long and memorable, leaving an impression of elegance and a desire for another sip.

Failla Wines’ approach to crafting this Chardonnay involves minimal intervention to allow the vineyard’s terroir to shine through. The grapes are handpicked at the peak of ripeness and gently pressed, with the juice fermented using indigenous yeasts. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, a portion of which are new, to add complexity and structure without overpowering the delicate fruit flavors. This careful process results in a wine that is both powerful and graceful, showcasing the potential of the Sonoma Coast and the skill of the winemaker.

The Chardonnay Platt Vineyard 2020 is more than just a wine; it is a narrative of place, capturing the unique climate and soil of the Sonoma Coast and expressing them through the lens of Chardonnay. It is a testament to the art of winemaking, where each decision, from vineyard practices to barrel selection, contributes to the final expression in the bottle. This vintage is a celebration of the partnership between land and winemaker, delivering a wine that speaks to the soul of its origin.

Pairing beautifully with a range of dishes, from seafood to poultry and creamy pasta, the Chardonnay Platt Vineyard 2020 is versatile and inviting. It also holds great potential for aging, promising to evolve and reveal new layers of complexity over time. For connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike, this wine offers an opportunity to experience the pinnacle of Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, a truly memorable vintage from Failla Wines that reflects the beauty and diversity of California’s wine country.