2023 Pride Mountain Chardonnay Napa Valley

The entirely barrel-fermented 2023 Chardonnay is produced mainly from purchased fruit, primarily from Carneros. Approximately 30% of the blend underwent malolactic fermentation; 11% of the barrels were new. Citrus, pear and pineapple lead the way on the nose, while the medium- to full-bodied palate is plump and custardy in feel, with notes of cinnamon and poached pear welling up on the finish.

Precise aromas of lemon curd, flint, pastry and white flowers, The palate is medium-bodied with a creamy texture and focused acidity, giving notes of grapefruit, lime zest and orange blossoms. A nice balance between power and finesse. Drink or hold.

The 2023 Chardonnay (Napa Valley) is bright, focused and quite steely in this vintage. White pepper, mint, sage and crushed rocks meld into a core of vibrant citrus-driven fruit. This is an especially focused style for Pride, largely the result of the year.