Sebastiani Winery has an impressive history. It was founded in 1904 by Samuele Sebastiani, an Italian immigrant who immediately recognized Sonoma's potential as a wine region. It was one of the first modern wineries in the area. Now, over 100 years later, there are more than 250 wineries! Sebastiani was the only winery in Sonoma permitted to produce wine during Prohibition, albeit on a small scale. Sebastiani invested heavily and innovated extensively in the past, discovering where Chardonnay grapes thrive. To this day, Chardonnay grapes grow here, optimally thanks to the unique microclimate.
The Chardonnay grapes are harvested early in the morning. This is the only way to preserve the necessary freshness. After pressing, 50% of the juice is fermented in oak to give it the necessary body. After vinification, 64% of the juice is aged in oak, a blend of American, French, and Hungarian oak. This unique aging method brings out the best of both worlds: the freshness of the grapes and the character of the oak. This is immediately evident in the aroma: crisp apple, fresh lemon, and abundant stone fruit such as apricot and peach, as well as vanilla and a hint of cream. Because Sebastiani Chardonnay California is aged only a small amount of oak, the flavor remains accessible. Mild and appealing. Nuances of peach, mango, pineapple, and papaya alternate with complex notes of baked apple, crème brûlée, and oak.
