Rombauer Carneros Chardonnay 2023

Rombauer Carneros Chardonnay 2023

Rombauer Carneros Chardonnay is the most popular Chardonnay in America and is internationally acclaimed for its rich style. This wine comes from the cool Carneros region, where Napa and Sonoma meet. It is the signature wine of Rombauer Vineyards: intensely fruity, round, and surprisingly lively thanks to its crisp acidity. The winery has been producing Chardonnay since 1982, and specifically from Carneros since 1990. According to the winery, the 2023 edition is considered one of the best vintages in years.

Vineyards and region

The grapes are sourced from our own vineyards in Carneros and from select plots of land owned by long-term partners like the Sangiacomo family, who have worked in this area for three generations. The climate in Carneros is strongly influenced by its proximity to San Pablo Bay, which ensures cool nights and long ripening periods. These conditions give the wine its characteristic balance of ripe fruit and crisp acidity.

Vinification and maturation

Harvest took place at night, once each plot reached peak ripeness. After hand-picking, the grapes were pressed directly and whole in the bunch while still cool. The juice was first clarified in tank and then transferred to barrels for both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged for nine months in American and French oak, 35% of which was new. The lees were worked up every seven to ten days to create additional creaminess and depth.

Grape composition

100% Chardonnay – with an average Brix of 23.3 at harvest.

Tasting notes and serving suggestions

Seductively aromatic with notes of ripe peach, melon, and citrus. On the palate, creamy vanilla and buttery nuances emerge, with a soft, full texture and a lingering finish. The crisp acidity keeps the wine perfectly balanced.
Serving temperature: 10–12 °C
Pairs well with: crab cakes, barley risotto, or strawberry shortcake.
Alcohol percentage: 14.6%

What makes this wine special?

Rombauer Carneros Chardonnay 2023 is a textbook example of the renowned California style, with a rich, creamy structure and refined oak notes. Thanks to careful vineyard management, block harvesting, and nine months of aging in partially new oak, this wine demonstrates exactly why it's so beloved. America's most popular Chardonnay—and you can taste it in every sip.