Quick Sip: James Family Cellars 2010 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

Hello Friends,

Last week on Cellars of Sonoma #TVTuesdayLive, host Scott Jordan welcomed special guest Jeff James of James Family Cellars. Jeff, along with his wife Judy, own and operate this micro-boutique Sonoma-based winery. The family planted their estate vineyard in 1998 and sold fruit to nearby producers. In 2007, they decided to keep their fruit and start their own label. While specializing in small batches (under1k cases per year) of estate-grown Pinot Noir, James Family Cellars also makes a nice Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. Jeff’s 2010 Chardonnay is aged in new (25%, 8-9 months) and neutral French (75%) oak barrels and goes through partial malolactic fermentation (conversion of a sharper malic acid to a softer lactic acid). See my tasting notes accompanied by a picture I snapped of the bottle below. Cheers!

 James Family Cellars 2010 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

Review: James Family Cellars' 2010 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay (SRP $30): I have a feeling that when Jeff James makes his Chardonnay that he has the Cellars of Sonoma annual ‘Lobster Lunch’ summer feast in mind. This is the perfect Chardonnay to pair with such a dish. In terms of style, it is halfway between crisp/racy and rich/toasty – offering the best of both worlds. I enjoyed this wine last year and my notes are pretty consistent. On the nose, it boasts inviting aromas of tart green apple, spiced pear, and light yellow fruit tones (tropical) alongside sweet (yet subtle) buttered toast and delicate vanilla bean notes. The palate is round, yet succulent, with supple fruit flavors and (vibrant) food-partnering acidity ending in an agreeable medium-length finish. The oak is used judiciously in this wine, complementing --  not overpowering, while the acidity gives the fruit a nice lift. For those of you still in the ABC (Anything But Chardonnay) club, this selection may compel you to cancel your membership! Approximately 240 cases of this Chardonnay were produced. (Other info: ABV 14.2%, cork enclosure). Click here to find this wine.

Happy Chardonnay Sipping!