Latah Creek Chardonnay 2023

Mike and Natalie, a father/daughter winemaking team, have a deep appreciation for this vineyard source for their Chardonnay. The vineyard’s northern location allows for cool nights, which helps the sugars to mature while maintaining the acid levels. They take pride in creating an approachable Chardonnay that is often fruity, with just a subtle hint of oak.

Like many wineries, Latah Creek experienced a “Covid wine”—a variety that saw a significant drop in sales. Unfortunately, this was their Chardonnay. It took a considerable amount of time to sell through their 2018 and 2019 vintages, leading to no varietal Chardonnay being bottled in 2020, 2021, or 2022. Although they created a small batch of Chardonnay for their Best Friends blend each of those years, they were thrilled to finally bottle it on its own in 2023! The wine was fermented in stainless steel at cooler temperatures to retain its vibrant fruit qualities, underwent complete malolactic fermentation to soften the acidity, and spent six months in new and used Hungarian and French oak to enhance its smoothness and round out the finish.

Natalie’s Tasting Notes

I create Chardonnays specifically for my mom, who loves this particular white varietal. However, neither of us desires a heavily oaked or buttery wine; we prefer to savor the fruit’s essence first. This Chardonnay presents enticing aromas of pineapple complemented by a hint of baking spice. The creamy texture starts with delicate lemon curd and tropical fruit notes intertwined with gentle oak, leaving a lasting impression of toasty spice, lemon, and pineapple after each sip. With nearly complete malolactic fermentation and six months spent in new and used Hungarian and French oak, it offers a luxuriously smooth and subtly toasted finish.

Food Pairing

Enjoy this wine with fish, seafood, cream sauces, pork, and chicken. Try Ellena’s Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders recipe online or available in her latest cookbook.