Black Stallion North Coast Chardonnay 2023

Black Stallion North Coast Chardonnay 2023

Looking for a creamy, oak-aged Chardonnay with true California class? This North Coast Chardonnay combines cooler provenance with cellar craftsmanship. The grapes come from Russian River Valley, Mendocino, and select parcels in Napa Valley, where ocean mist and cool nights create vibrant acidity and ripe aromas. For an even more refined experience, compare it to the Black Stallion Los Carneros Chardonnay">Black Stallion Los Carneros Chardonnay , sourced from an even more distinctive, top-tier Napa Valley region.

Vineyards and region

The North Coast is known for its cool microclimates and slow, even ripening. The Russian River Valley brings aromatic finesse and tension, Mendocino delivers freshness and length, and Napa adds depth and structure. Harvest takes place in the cool of the night to ensure the fruit arrives at the cellar in pristine condition. Thanks to the mild season, the grapes were able to remain on the vine for extended periods, resulting in additional layers of flavor and aroma.

Vinification and maturation

Part of the must is fermented in French oak barrels for breadth and depth, while the rest retains its freshness in steel. The wine matures on the fine yeast cells, which are gently stirred weekly. What does weekly stirring do to Chardonnay? Bâtonnage, the agitation of the yeast cells, gives the wine more body, creaminess, and complexity. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation, rounding out the acidity and creating a buttery-smooth mouthfeel. The alcohol content is 14.5 percent, and the balance remains fresh and precise thanks to its cool origins.

Grape composition

Chardonnay , North Coast (the encompassing collection of wine regions in Northern California)
100 percent Chardonnay from Russian River Valley, Mendocino, and select parcels in Napa Valley, each with a cooler microclimate that emphasizes freshness and aromatic depth.

Tasting notes and serving suggestions

The color is bright gold with a fine sheen. The aroma reveals orange blossom, lemon curd, and roasted almond. You'll taste juicy tropical fruit, toast, caramel, and a soft, buttery finish. The texture is creamy with lively acidity and a long, precise finish. Serve at 6 to 8 degrees Celsius with cod with beurre blanc, truffle risotto, or roast chicken with lemon butter.

About the winery

Black Stallion Estate Winery, located on the Silverado Trail in Napa Valley, is part of the Indelicato family. This family, descended from Italian immigrants, has been building quality since 1924 and was named American Winery of the Year in 2007. The North Coast Chardonnay convincingly showcases this tradition of precision and terroir expression.