2006 Domaine Alfred Central Coast ‘Stainless’ Chardonnay

About This Wine

How does a winery obtain extremely concentrated grapes?

By controlling the farming in the vineyard. That’s the secret behind Domaine Alfred’s “Stainless” Chardonnay, and the reason the wine spent no time in oak barrels for added complexity; the grapes and the wine were complex enough on their own.

From the time it was founded, Domaine Alfred has embraced biodynamic farming, a practice that leads to more healthy grapevines. Then to assure that only the finest grapes are harvested, the estate embraces a regimen that includes deficit irrigation, canopy management and aggressive thinning. Those healthy grapes are packed with wonderful aroma, flavor and spice characteristics.

To better showcase those attractive traits, the decision was made to age the wine in stainless steel tanks as opposed to oak barrels. Stainless steel is said to be “neutral,” in that it imparts no flavors of its own to the wine. The 2006 Domaine Alfred “Stainless” Chardonnay is a delicious example of what Chardonnay really tastes like.

About Chardonnay

Relatively easy to grow in a variety of locations. Consistently produces some of the world's great white wines. Complex, full, rich and fruity with soft edges and moderate acidity. Offers rich and intense fruit flavors of apple, fig, melon, pear, peach, pineapple, along with creamy yeast spice, honey, butter and hazelnut flavors.

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:100% Chardonnay
• Grape Source:Select Vineyards in California’s Central Coast Growing Region
• Aromas & Flavors:Red Apple, Pear, White Peach, Juicy Melon, Meyer Lemon, Pineapple and Cardamom
• Aging Vessels:Stainless Steel Tanks
• When to Drink:Now Through 2011
• Food Pairing Suggestionsalads, seafood, chicken, or sushi.

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