Exploring Wharf Wine and Spirits’ Fine Chardonnay Collection
by Chaiel Schaffel
Simply saying the name “Chardonnay” evokes the image of a lush french vineyard, stocked with rows upon rows of plump green grapes that stretch just over the horizon. Chardonnay is a light wine, originating in the Burgundy region of eastern France. It is perfect for completing a home-cooked meal on the patio, or simply for savoring alone. Unlike some other wines, the characteristics of Chardonnay vary remarkably based on the winery’s technique and locale. For this reason, it is important to pick not just any Chardonnay, but the right Chardonnay. Wharf Wine and Spirits, located in Edgartown, has the knowledge and expertise to pick out the perfect ‘Chard’ for you. ll you have to do is sit back and imagine yourself in the sun on a warm beach, with a chilled glass in your grasp and not a care in the world on your mind.
Straight from the wide open fields of the Sonoma valley comes a delight to those yearning for purity; the Three Sticks Origins Chardonnay, vintage 2011. For some Chardonnay drinkers, the woody flavors imparted by aging the wine in oak casks is too intense. This wine is a welcome relief for the sensitive, as it is aged in stainless steel vats instead, evolving the wine into a purer and more natural state. This Chardonnay is an upbeat and expressive one, with lemon, golden apple, and stone fruit flavors to complete the palate.
A notably long finish ends every sip of this wonder on the lips. This variety, like many Chardonnays, would pair well with a meal of seafood or salad greens. (Three Sticks Origin Chardonnay 2011-$53)
Another excellent choice of Chardonnay hails from the storied vineyards of the Paul Hobbs winery. This choice, the Paul Hobbs Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2011, is aged in oak, and therefore presents with rich woody notes. The wine is possesses a delicate pale straw color, and gives off a bright, playful aroma of citrus and nectarine. This variety is a harmonious one, seamlessly blending flavors of white peach, lemon, and apricot, while also shedding a creamy texture on the palate. The finish is equally well crafted, containing notes of minerality. A dinner of chicken and light cheese would complement the creamy texture of this variety well. (Paul Hobbs Chardonnay 2011-$58)
A popular option among avid Chardonnay drinkers on a budget, the Sonoma-Cutrer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, 2012, gives the drinker the experience of a fine Chardonnay without the pricetag. Grown in the Sonoma valley, the wine is rich in oaky, creamy texture, and bursts with the flavor of Bosc pears, white peaches, and Golden Delicious apples. Along with the fruity beginning are notes of toasted nuts, and a touch of vanilla. This variety boasts bright acidity to complement its creamy texture, and would pair well with a dinner of roast turkey and spinach. (Sonoma-Cutrer: Sonoma Coast Chardonnay-$17)
Wharf Wine and Spirits is located at 8 Mayhew Lane, Edgartown. For more information, call 508-627-5183, or visit the storefront. Wharf Wine and Spirits is open from 10:00 AM until 10:00 PM Monday-Thursday, 10:00 AM until 11:00 PM Friday-Saturday, and 12:00 PM- until 11:00 PM Sunday.
