Experience the elegance of the Vivier Chardonnay, a boutique wine crafted by renowned winemaker Stéphane Vivier. Sourced from the prestigious Hyde Vineyard, this exceptional 2021 Chardonnay boasts a beautiful harmony of Old World finesse and New World vibrancy. On the nose, it unveils delicate aromas of green apple, wet stone, and fresh herbs. The palate delights with layers of citrus, pear, candied green apple, and hints of melon, complemented by its signature minerality and a refreshing, savory finish reminiscent of a Grand Cru Chablis. Perfectly balanced with bright acidity, this wine pairs excellently with dishes such as baked chicken with tarragon, creamy Camembert, or a savory crab soufflé. Designed to age gracefully through 2040, the Vivier Chardonnay embodies sophistication and terroir-driven craftsmanship in every sip.
Process & Profile
Vivier Chardonnay is the masterpiece of winemaker Stéphane Vivier, blending old-world tradition with new-world innovation. A graduate of the Université de Bourgogne in Dijon, Vivier brings a Burgundian sensibility to California's renowned vineyards. The Vivier Chardonnay from both the Hyde Vineyard and Sonoma Coast regions highlights boutique craftsmanship, sourcing grapes from premier sites like Flocchini Vineyard known for its minerality and acidity. Carefully matured in oak, with portions fermented in new foudres and barriques, this wine harmonizes complexity, freshness, and vibrancy.
Tasting Notes
This Chardonnay enchants with a bouquet of citrus, honeysuckle, green apple, and pear, underscored by minerality and hints of clove. On the palate, expect a bright, dynamic interplay of flavors—green apple, melon, and citrus meld with subtle apricot and crushed almonds for a fresh yet rich experience. Its vibrant acidity and structured finish make it both approachable now and suitable for cellaring, promising graceful aging for up to two decades.
What Makes It Special
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Old World Meets New World: Stéphane Vivier's winemaking combines classic Burgundian restraint with the bold potential of California fruit.
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Boutique Production: Limited case production ensures meticulous attention to detail in every bottle.
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Unique Terroir Expression: Whether from the Hyde Vineyard's classic minerality or the Sonoma Coast's vibrant acidity, Vivier Chardonnay reflects California's distinct viticultural identity.
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Aging Potential: Its layered complexity and structure promise a long aging lifespan, making this wine an investment for enthusiasts.
How to Enjoy
Pair the Vivier Chardonnay with delicate yet richly flavored dishes to complement its layered profile:
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Food Pairings: Baked chicken with tarragon, Dungeness crab soufflé, or creamy cheeses like Camembert enhance its vibrant and savory notes.
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Serving Tips: Serve chilled at 50–55°F (10–13°C) to best capture its aromatic and textural elegance.
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Occasions: Perfect for elegant dinners, celebrations, or as a wine to savor on its own.
Elevate your Chardonnay experience with Vivier—a wine where precision and passion shine in every glass.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key flavor notes of Vivier Chardonnay?
Vivier Chardonnay boasts vibrant citrus, honeysuckle, pear, and clove on the nose. Its palate is fresh and mouthwatering with good minerality, balanced acidity, and subtle oak tones for added complexity.
Is Vivier Chardonnay oaked or unoaked?
This Chardonnay is aged with limited exposure to new oak (approximately 10%) in French oak barrels, adding a delicate oak influence without overwhelming the wine's natural fruit flavors.
What is the alcohol content of Vivier Chardonnay?
The wine has an alcohol content of 12.5%, which contributes to its balanced and approachable character.
What foods pair well with Vivier Chardonnay?
This wine pairs beautifully with dishes like roasted poultry, grilled fish, creamy pasta, or light vegetarian dishes such as mushroom risotto. Its acidity and subtle oak influence also complement rich seafood like scallops or lobster.
What temperature should Vivier Chardonnay be served at?
For optimal enjoyment, Vivier Chardonnay should be served slightly chilled, around 48–54°F (9–12°C), to enhance its fruity and mineral-driven flavors.
What makes Vivier Chardonnay unique?
This wine showcases a harmonious blend of California's fruit-forward expression with a restrained, Burgundian-inspired winemaking style. Its balance of vibrant acidity, minerality, and subtle oak influence creates a versatile and elegant white wine.
Does Vivier Chardonnay undergo malolactic fermentation?
Yes, malolactic fermentation is part of the winemaking process, giving the wine a creamy mouthfeel while maintaining its crisp acidity.
How should I store Vivier Chardonnay if not consumed immediately?
Store the wine horizontally in a cool, dark place with a steady temperature of 50–55°F. Once opened, it can remain fresh for up to 3 days if sealed properly and refrigerated.
Is Vivier Chardonnay suitable for aging?
While it's crafted to be enjoyed young and fresh, Vivier Chardonnay can develop additional complexity if cellared for a couple of years due to its balanced acidity and structure.