2001 Chateau Souverain Winemaker's Reserve Chardonnay

Souverain’s history dates to 1944 when J. Leland Stewart harvested his first crop from his vineyard near Howell Mountain. Stewart focused on making Cabernet Sauvignon, and for several decades his Cabs were widely admired by those who believed that California could produce world class wine. Stewart sold the winery to investors in 1973, staying on for almost a decade as winemaking consultant. At the time of the sale, the estate moved to Alexander Valley, where it remains today. In 1986 the estate was sold to Beringer and the word “Chateau” was added to the name. Ed Killian was hired as an associate winemaker in 1992 and since 1996 he has been head winemaker. Souverain owns a 120-year old estate vineyard of about 280 acres. Souverain produces Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Russian River Valley AVA is named for the river that meanders from Mendocino County in the north until it finally runs into the Pacific Ocean north of San Francisco. The AVA is cool thanks to its proximity to the northern California coast and the river, and grape growers must learn to deal with regular fog. Nevertheless in recent decades the AVA has become one of the best in the state, meaning that its wines often earn excellent reviews and have considerable cachet. The AVA status was awarded in 1983 and today the appellation has 15,000 vineyard acres. Chardonnay is the most widely planted grape though Pinot Noir has also been very successful in recent decades. Russian River Valley Pinot Noir are known for being rich, lush and filled with concentrated fruit and berry flavors. Russian River Pinot Noirs are today considered some of the best domestic Pinot Noirs.

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.

1,958 cases produced