Experience the exceptional elegance of PlumpJack Reserve Chardonnay, a Napa Valley treasure crafted with precision and passion. This 100% Chardonnay dazzles the senses with a vibrant bouquet of citrus notes like lemon, lime, and orange zest, layered with tropical hints of lychee and feijoa, as well as delicate floral aromas of honeysuckle and white peach. Sourced from premier vineyards in Los Carneros and St. Helena, this wine achieves a remarkable balance of bright acidity and creamy texture, reminiscent of tangy lemon curd. With fermentation in both stainless steel and French oak, its complexity is heightened by subtle notes of toasted hazelnuts, nutmeg, and spice. The absence of malolactic fermentation preserves its lively character, making every sip a celebration of freshness, structure, and enduring flavor. Perfect for pairing or savoring on its own, PlumpJack Reserve Chardonnay offers a luxurious tasting journey.
Process & Profile
The PlumpJack Reserve Chardonnay is a refined expression of Napa Valley, crafted with meticulous care to highlight the character of the region's terroir. The wine is sourced from two distinct vineyard sites: the cool, breezy Los Carneros area and the warmer St. Helena region. This dual sourcing brings together the zesty vibrancy of Carneros fruit with the lush, tropical nuances of St. Helena grapes. Fermentation involves a blend of stainless steel tanks (64%) to retain the wine's fresh aromatics and French oak barrels (36%) for added depth and complexity. Importantly, malolactic fermentation is avoided to preserve the lively acidity that defines this Chardonnay, while aging on lees enhances its creamy texture and layered flavors.
Tasting Notes
PlumpJack Reserve Chardonnay greets the senses with an inviting nose featuring bright citrus tones—lemon, lime, and Granny Smith apple—accompanied by the minerality of wet stone. Layered beneath are delicate aromas of cantaloupe, honeydew, nectarine, and honeysuckle, with the oak adding subtle hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. On the palate, it offers a rich, round texture balanced by refreshing acidity, culminating in a vibrant, creamy lemon custard finish. Notes of tropical fruit and toasted hazelnuts add further complexity, resulting in an enduring and energetic expression that lingers beautifully.
What Makes It Special
PlumpJack Reserve Chardonnay stands out for its focus on balance and purity. The wine's dual-vineyard sourcing ensures a multi-faceted flavor profile, while the combination of stainless steel and oak fermentation preserves its freshness and adds textural layers. By foregoing malolactic fermentation, the winemakers maintain the signature crispness that complements the wine's richness. Additionally, the eco-conscious farming practices at PlumpJack underscore a commitment to sustainability while elevating the quality of the wine.
How to Enjoy
Best served chilled, around 50°F, the PlumpJack Reserve Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Its vibrant acidity and creamy palate complement rich seafood like lobster or scallops as well as roasted chicken and buttery pasta dishes. For lighter fare, pair it with a fresh goat cheese salad or citrus-infused dishes to highlight the wine's bright, zesty character. As a versatile and balanced wine, it's equally enjoyable on its own for a moment of indulgence. While ready to drink now, the wine's structure allows for short-term aging to further develop its complexity.
Experience the brilliance of Napa Valley's terroir with every sip of PlumpJack Reserve Chardonnay—a wine that beautifully merges elegance, vibrancy, and craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of PlumpJack Chardonnay?
PlumpJack Chardonnay features a complex and layered flavor profile. It offers notes of lemon, lime, Granny Smith apple, and wet stone, complemented by richer aromas of cantaloupe, honeydew, nectarine, and honeysuckle. Subtle oak brings in hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and toasted hazelnuts for added depth. The palate combines creamy textures reminiscent of lemon custard with vibrant acidity for a refreshing, long-lasting finish.
What is unique about PlumpJack Chardonnay's production process?
The wine is crafted using Chardonnay grapes from cooler and warmer Napa Valley regions, which provide a balance of bright acidity and creamy richness. Unlike some oaked Chardonnays, PlumpJack Chardonnay does not undergo malolactic fermentation, preserving its lively malic acid and enhancing its fruit-driven characteristics.
What foods pair well with PlumpJack Chardonnay?
PlumpJack Chardonnay pairs excellently with a range of dishes, including roasted poultry, creamy pasta, seafood like scallops or lobster, and mild cheeses. Its bright acidity and creamy texture make it versatile for both rich and lighter fare.
What serving temperature is best for PlumpJack Chardonnay?
To fully appreciate the flavors and aromas of PlumpJack Chardonnay, serve it chilled but not too cold. The recommended serving temperature for oaked Chardonnays like this one is around 54°F (12°C).
Can PlumpJack Chardonnay be aged?
Yes, PlumpJack Chardonnay can be aged for several years. During aging, the wine's creamy texture and balanced acidity allow it to develop more complex aromas and flavors, such as hazelnut or honey, while maintaining its structure and freshness.
What distinguishes PlumpJack Chardonnay from other Chardonnays?
PlumpJack Chardonnay stands out due to its precision in blending bright acidity from cooler climates and rich textures from warmer areas. The use of subtle oak and the decision to forgo malolactic fermentation enhance its fruit purity, vibrancy, and balance.