2019 Simi Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

Simi Winery is in Sonoma County. It was established in 1876 after brothers Giuseppe and Pietro Simi left Tuscany to pan for gold in California. Within 20 years they were making wine in Healdsburg. During prohibition Giuseppe’s daughter ran the winery and continued to make wine, which she stored in the cellar. Today the winery is owned by Constellation Brands, a large conglomerate with which owns numerous wineries around the world. The estate owns 600 acres in Alexander Valley and 120 acres in the Russian River Valley and produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Pinot Noir.

Sonoma Coast AVA runs from San Pablo Bay in the south to Mendocino County in the north. It includes 7,000 vineyard acres and earned AVA status in 1987. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean means it gets double the rainfall of nearby inland appellations and the ocean gives the appellation a relatively cool climate. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir can thrive in these conditions, and there are numerous producers making critically acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

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.