The new release of ZD Wines’ Carneros Reserve Chardonnay is another example of our careful winemaking and unwavering commitment to producing world-class wines, even when faced with the many challenges of the 2020 harvest in Wine Country due to the wildfires. Through discerning selection of vineyard blocks and the ability to make subtle adjustments in winemaking, we produced this incredibly delicious wine that is the exceptional quality you’ve come to expect from ZD Wines.

The 2020 growing season began with an unseasonably warm, dry winter with almost no rain until late March, which resulted in early bud break. Summer brought the return of classic cool Carneros mornings and warm afternoons. This ultimately led to a well-balanced crop that ripened slowly, allowing the intense flavors to develop while maintaining natural acidities at slightly lower sugar levels.

The wine is showing plentiful aromas of ripe citrus, apricot, pear, soft vanilla, and a hint of toasted coconut. The palate is rich and full bodied with tropical notes of pineapple, pear, and well-integrated, toasty American Oak. This wine is drinking wonderfully now and will continue to develop for many years.

Only 15 barrels were produced.