A few weeks ago I was invited to participate in a Gallo Chardonnay tour, visiting their premium Chardonnay producing wineries. Considering my deep affection for this versatile varietal {shown here}, I jumped at the opportunity to further explore & investigate the number one selling wine in the country.
The tour kicked off in the morning at the gorgeous MacMurray Ranch in Healdsburg. Then, after a short stop at the Laguna Vineyard, we trekked over to the Silverado Trail to finish the day at the panoramic William Hill Estate.
Gallo’s Chardonnay philosophy: To produce a diverse line of Chardonnay that covers the full spectrum of styles and types. Most importantly, making different styles of Chardonnay for every Chardonnay lover - buttery-oaky to stainless steel fermented.
Well amigos, it’s true. If you don’t like Chardonnay, you haven’t found the right one for you. So what are you waiting for? The standouts of the day were the William Hill ’09 Chardonnay and ’09 Bench Blend - crisp, refreshing with great acidity. I can see myself pairing these wines with a spicy Thai curry and be in complete and utter heaven. Perfection at best!
Check out my photo diary to see the highlights of my day. Ole!
{MacMurray Ranch}
{The aroma wheel. Don't you love the variety of characteristics?!}
{Delicious lunch at MacMurray Ranch. All of the fruit & veggies came from their organic garden}
{Kate MacMurray giving us a pictorial retrospective of the rich history of MacMurray Ranch}
{The historic Prune Barn}
{View from the top of MacMurray Ranch. You can see the Russian River from here!}
{Laguna Vineyards}
{I see you!}
{Panoramic view of William Hill Estate}
{Relaxing with a glass of '09 William Hill Chardonnay}
{Massive barrel room at William Hill}
{Fact: You will be surrounded by mountains of wine barrels and the smell of wine will intoxicate all your senses}
{Sunset at William Hill. Absolutely breathtaking views}
{The perfect ending to the day. Now pick a bottle and enjoy!}
