Materra 2023 Shinkan Chardonnay
Materra 2023 Shinkan Chardonnay
In Japan, Shinkan means "quiet forest". In California, it means "one of our favorite minimally-oaked Chardonnays!"
The wine is from the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley, coaxed into life by winemaker Chelsea Barrett (daughter of the famed consulting winemaker, Heidi Barrett and Bo Barrett, owner/winemaker at Chateau Montelena).
Brian Cunat and his Japanese wife, Miki, asked Chelsea to craft a Chardonnay that would compliment sushi - a challenge for a Napa winemaker whose family roots are deeply entwined with the big, rich style of oaked Chardonnay.
This is a wine of a different sort - it's zesty and delicate with aromas of lemon peel, pineapple, and white peach, and subtle but enticing notes of baking spices.
Fresh, crisp and well balanced with a lightly creamy texture. Sustainable and small production. This wine is a exceptional value for the money.
Pairs well with sushi, salads, poultry, cream sauce dishes and triple cream brie... with or without truffles!