Get to Know Sonoma Chardonnay

Chardonnay grapes occupy more space than any other wine varietal in Sonoma County, accounting for nearly 17,000 vineyard acres.

Its high demand makes it one of the most widely planted grape varietals not just here, but in the world, covering over one-half million acres. 

The exciting and flavorful quality of Sonoma Chardonnay is influenced by the appellation climates where the grapes see the most success, including Carneros and the Russian River Valley, where some of our very own Ram's Gate Wines hail from. 

The coastal fogs in these areas slow the ripening process, giving the grapes more time to develop the rich and creamy flavors California Chardonnay lovers crave. 

What Style Shapes the Sonoma Chardonnay?

Chardonnay may be wildly popular throughout the U.S. and the rest of the world, but they are not all the same—even by California Chardonnay standards. 

Depending on the grape, fermentation process, and aging platform, Sonoma Chardonnay can be crisp and minerally or creamy and buttery. 

The oaky, buttery Chardonnay flavor profile, which is the internationally recognized style of Chardonnay around the world, is the product of winemaking techniques and decisions. 

Chardonnay is a culmination of yellow apple, apricot, and red grapefruit, with hints of lemon, honey that give it suppleness. When aged in oak, Chardonnay has toasty and spicy flavors, instead of the mineral outcome produced by the stainless-steel casks. 

What makes a delicious Chardonnay? 

That is up to your palate, and style, as both are worthy of top-notch marks by wine lovers and critics alike.  

Speaking of Top-Notch Marks…

Our 2018 Ram's Gate Estate Chardonnay is a full-bodied white wine that boasts bright and juicy nectarine and peach, with aromatics comprised of complex orange blossom, roasted almond, and raw vanilla bean that unfold delicately in true Sonoma Chardonnay fashion as it pours into the glass. 

And we are not the only ones who think so. 

Jeb Dunnuck, who provides in-depth and cutting-edge wine reviews and commentary on the top wine regions of the world, scored this Ram’s Gate Chardonnay at 94 points. 

Internationally acclaimed wine critic and journalist, James Suckling, posted this Chardonnay at 91 points, and Wine Spectator at 90 points.

Would You Like to Get to Know Our Ram’s Gate Sonoma Chardonnay? 

Ram’s Gate Winery is open, socially distanced, and ready for business in a way that provides the wine tasting experience our guests have come to enjoy for nearly a decade, in an inclusive environment that welcomes guests back outside, under our California sun.

We have also expanded our experiences to include a Veranda Package that delivers a guided, fireside flight of five wines accompanied by cheese, charcuterie, and personal blankets.  

Want more? Reserve our five-course wine and food pairing that is a spirited culinary adventure. 

If you prefer to enjoy our Sonoma Chardonnay from home join our wine club or order online for delivery or curbside pickup today.