Wine Advisor
Pahlmeyer, Chardonnay 2020
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Description
Pahlmeyer, Chardonnay, Napa Valley, California, White, 2015
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Joe Czerwinski
Almost entirely Old Wente clone (or, more properly, selection), Pahlmeyer's 2020 Chardonnay continues to be among Napa's most noteworthy efforts with the variety. All barrel fermented in all new oak from François Frères, there are overtones of smoke, mocha and popcorn, notes of honey and toast but also a deep core of pear and melon notes. Full-bodied and generous on the palate, it's also long and citrusy, with classy notes of pencil shavings on the lingering finish.
About the Producer
Pahlmeyer is a high-end winery located in the Napa Valley of California, founded in 1986. The estate has 200 acres of vineyards, planted with a variety of grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc. Pahlmeyer is known for producing high-quality wines, with its Cabernet Sauvignon being considered one of the best in California. The founder of Pahlmeyer, Jayson Pahlmeyer, was a successful lawyer, but his passion for wine led him to start his own wine brand. He purchased land in the Napa Valley and began planting grapes, and in 1986, he released the first Pahlmeyer Cabernet Sauvignon. Pahlmeyer's vineyards are located in the Atlas Peak area of the Napa Valley, at elevations ranging from 600 to 2100 feet. The cool climate of the region helps grapes mature and maintain acidity. The vineyard's soils are dominated by volcanic ash and limestone, providing grapes with rich nutrients and minerals.
