Crafted from one of Washington State's most renowned and historic vineyards, Chateau Ste. Michelle Cold Creek Chardonnay is the epitome of elegance and richness. Grown on 40-year-old vines in the warm, sun-soaked Columbia Valley, this vintage delivers lush flavors of ripe apple, tropical fruit, and a touch of honey, beautifully balanced by toasty oak and delicate vanilla undertones from French oak aging. This Chardonnay boasts a signature intensity and complexity, thanks to the vineyard's nutrient-poor, loamy soil and meticulous craftsmanship. Perfectly suited for pairing with creamy dishes or enjoyed on its own, this wine celebrates the harmony of bold fruit character and refined structure.
Process & Profile
Chateau Ste. Michelle's Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay is crafted from one of Washington State's most esteemed and historic vineyards, established in the 1970s. The Cold Creek Vineyard benefits from warm, sun-drenched days and cool nights, resulting in a perfect climate for producing concentrated and full-bodied Chardonnay grapes. The wine is aged sur lie for nine months in 100% French oak barrels, with 50% being new oak. This meticulous process includes regular hand stirring, integrating the oak flavors harmoniously with the ripe fruit while contributing to its characteristic creamy texture.
Tasting Notes
This Chardonnay offers a luxurious and decadent profile. It boasts rich aromas of ripe apples, Meyer lemons, and tropical fruits, accented by notes of vanilla and toasty oak. On the palate, expect a full-bodied experience with flavors of baked apples, citrus zest, and a hint of sweet lemon meringue. The finish is long and smooth, with a well-balanced combination of fruit intensity and creamy oak.
What Makes It Special
What sets this wine apart is its old-vine signature, with vines planted in the 1970s developing character and complexity year after year. These established vines, combined with Columbia Valley's unique terroir, yield grapes with unparalleled depth and flavor concentration. The Cold Creek Vineyard's low rainfall and early bud break are hallmarks that contribute to the wine's distinctive, ripe fruit intensity. Additionally, Chateau Ste. Michelle's careful aging process in French oak adds layers of complexity, making this Chardonnay a standout among Washington State wines.
How to Enjoy
This richly textured Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements creamy pasta, roasted chicken, and seafood dishes like scallops or crab with lemon butter. For a vegetarian option, try it alongside a mushroom risotto or grilled vegetables. Serve slightly chilled at around 50–55°F to allow its layered flavors and aromas to shine. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a meal, this Chardonnay offers a perfect blend of elegance and indulgence for any occasion.
Indulge in the exceptional craftsmanship of Chateau Ste. Michelle Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay—an embodiment of Washington State's winemaking excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wine is the Cold Creek Chardonnay?
Cold Creek Chardonnay is a premium white wine made entirely from Chardonnay grapes. It is known for its intense, ripe fruit flavors, complemented by subtle oak influences. This wine is crafted from grapes grown in Chateau Ste. Michelle's Cold Creek Vineyard, one of Washington's oldest and most acclaimed vineyard sites.
What are the tasting notes for Cold Creek Chardonnay?
Cold Creek Chardonnay offers lush flavors of ripe fruit, often with hints of apple and pear, accompanied by a creamy texture and enriching oak nuances. Its aging in French oak barrels for around nine months contributes to its elegant structure and complexity, making it a well-rounded and appealing wine.
What food pairs well with Cold Creek Chardonnay?
This Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, including roasted chicken, seafood, pasta with creamy sauces, and mild cheeses. Its richness and balance of fruit and oak make it versatile enough to complement lighter fare or stand up to more flavorful dishes.
How is the Cold Creek Vineyard unique?
Planted in 1973, the Cold Creek Vineyard is one of Washington's oldest and most renowned vineyard sites. The south-facing vineyard benefits from a warm, dry climate with high heat accumulation, which enhances the ripeness and intensity of the fruit. This vineyard is known for delivering consistently high-quality grapes that contribute to the rich flavor profile of this Chardonnay.
What is the alcohol content of Cold Creek Chardonnay?
The Cold Creek Chardonnay has an alcohol content of 14.5%, which is typical for wines made from ripe grapes grown in warmer climates like the Columbia Valley.
Is Cold Creek Chardonnay part of any special collection or program?
Yes, the wine can be purchased as part of Chateau Ste. Michelle's Vintage Reserve Club, which offers discounts and exclusive access to select wines when you join.
Where can I purchase Cold Creek Chardonnay?
Cold Creek Chardonnay is available for purchase directly from Chateau Ste. Michelle, various online wine retailers, and select wine shops across the United States. Membership in the Vintage Reserve Club also provides options for discounted purchases and shipping.
What makes Chateau Ste. Michelle unique as a winery?
Chateau Ste. Michelle is Washington State's founding winery and is recognized for its dedication to producing premium wines that combine Old World winemaking traditions with New World innovation. With over 50 years of experience and a focus on quality, the winery has earned numerous accolades, including several "Winery of the Year" honors.