2015 Brogan Cellars Locavore Ranch Chardonnay

Brogan Cellars is in Healdsburg. It was started in 1998 by Margaret Wierenga, who is the daughter of Burt Williams of Williams Selyem. Margaret worked for her father and other wine producers before starting a label named after her paternal grandmother. Margaret runs the winery with her husband and son. Grapes are sourced from the Russian River Valley and the Sonoma Coast. She makes about 1,500 cases annually. Brogan Cellars specializes in Pinot Noir, but also makes Chardonnay, Zinfandel and Syrah.

Mendocino AVA was established in 1984 and amended in 1989. It includes numerous sub-appellations. Mendocino AVA is entirely within Mendocino County, and the AVA is known for its Mediterranean climate. Vintners successfully grow Carignan, Charbono, Grenache, Zinfandel, Petit Sirah and Syrah. In cooler parts of the region Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are also grown. Mendocino County is home to nearly 600 vineyards, and many have been certified organic for decades, thanks to the region’s famous “green and sustainable” approach to agriculture and nearly everything else. Mendocino was named for 16th century explorers, a pair of brothers whose last name was Mendoza. Winemaking, however, didn’t start until the 19th century when some would-be gold miners decided it was more profitable to make wine than to pan for gold. Italian immigrants in the late 19th century continued to establish winemaking ventures.

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.