Indulge in the bold and innovative craftsmanship of the Robert Mondavi Private Selection Bourbon Barrel-Aged Chardonnay. This one-of-a-kind wine combines the elegance of cool, coastal Monterey County Chardonnay with the rich depth imparted by aging in Kentucky bourbon barrels. Its golden hue invites you to explore enticing aromas of ripe pineapple, toasted coconut, and a hint of vanilla. On the palate, enjoy luxurious layers of creamy butter, grilled pineapple, lemon custard, and a whisper of toasty oak, all balanced by crisp acidity and a lingering warm finish. Perfect as a standalone sip or paired with dishes like grilled halibut, roasted pork tenderloin, or bacon-wrapped dates, this Chardonnay delivers a truly indulgent and unforgettable sensory experience.
Process & Profile
The Robert Mondavi Bourbon Barrel-Aged Chardonnay is a pioneering wine, being the first of its kind to undergo aging in bourbon barrels. Select lots of this wine are fermented in new oak barrels and then aged for a minimum of seven months in repurposed bourbon barrels from renowned Kentucky distilleries. This innovative process imparts rich layers of flavor, including subtle hints of caramel, vanilla, and toasty oak, which accentuate the wine's creamy texture and balanced acidity. Golden straw in color, this Chardonnay epitomizes the harmonious blend of modern craftsmanship and time-honored techniques.
Tasting Notes
This wine boasts a captivating aroma profile, opening with ripe tropical scents of pineapple, toasted coconut, and grilled peaches. Underlying hints of toasted marshmallow and vanilla bean custard add depth. On the palate, you’ll discover a rich tapestry of flavors including:
- Grilled pineapple and lemon custard
- Graham cracker and toffee
- Vanilla bean and baking spices
The combination of these flavors creates a creamy, concentrated mouthfeel that is balanced beautifully by bright acidity and finishes with a satisfying linger.
What Makes It Special
Robert Mondavi's Bourbon Barrel-Aged Chardonnay is unique for its innovative approach to aging. By incorporating bourbon barrels, it achieves a bold complexity not found in traditional Chardonnays. The porous oak barrels, previously used for bourbon, imbue the wine with additional flavors of caramel and vanilla, enhancing its richness. This process elevates the wine beyond its category, making it a standout choice for those seeking a refined yet adventurous Chardonnay experience.
How to Enjoy
This Chardonnay shines as both a standalone sip and a versatile food companion. For pairings, consider:
- Grilled halibut with lemon-caper butter
- Shrimp scampi or bacon-wrapped dates
- Creamy risotto or garden salads with gorgonzola and toasted pecans
Serve slightly chilled to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and creamy texture. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening or hosting a dinner party, this wine guarantees to impress with its bold and refined character.
Discover the perfect balance of California tradition and Southern bourbon influences in every sip of Robert Mondavi Bourbon Barrel-Aged Chardonnay—a wine crafted for those who appreciate innovation and excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about Robert Mondavi Bourbon Barrel-Aged Chardonnay?
This is the world's first and only Chardonnay aged in bourbon barrels. The aging process in bourbon barrels adds rich, toasty flavors with hints of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, creating a distinctive creamy and complex wine experience.
What are the tasting notes for this Chardonnay?
The wine is golden straw in color with aromas of ripe, grilled peach, toasted marshmallow, vanilla bean custard, and baked spiced pear. On the palate, it offers rich flavors of lemon pie crust, graham cracker, vanilla bean, baking spices, and toasty oak, complemented by a balanced acidity and lingering finish.
How long is this wine aged in bourbon barrels?
The Robert Mondavi Bourbon Barrel-Aged Chardonnay is aged in American oak bourbon barrels for a minimum of seven months. This process enhances its bold, unique flavor profile.
What foods pair well with this wine?
This wine pairs beautifully with creamy dishes, white meats, risotto, and a variety of seafood. Specific recommendations include grilled halibut with lemon caper butter, roasted pork tenderloin, and shrimp scampi. It can also be enjoyed as an aperitif.
Why use bourbon barrels for aging Chardonnay?
Bourbon barrels contribute unique flavors like caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak to the wine. The charring of bourbon barrels also adds layers of complexity and richness, enhancing the Chardonnay's overall character.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) of the Robert Mondavi Bourbon Barrel-Aged Chardonnay is 14.8%.
Can I age this bottle further?
While this wine can be stored for a few years, its bold flavors and creamy texture are crafted to be enjoyed upon release, making it ideal for immediate consumption.
Is this wine sweet or dry?
This Chardonnay is considered dry, but the influence of bourbon barrels adds a layer of perceived sweetness from notes of vanilla, caramel, and ripe fruits, balanced by refreshing acidity.
How should this wine be served?
For the best experience, serve this wine slightly chilled, around 50–55°F (10–13°C), to fully enjoy its complex flavors and aromas.
Where is this wine produced?
The Robert Mondavi Bourbon Barrel-Aged Chardonnay is crafted using coastal fruit from Monterey County, California, an area known for its cool climate and ideal conditions for producing high-quality Chardonnay.