I recently had the chance to sample two distinct La Crema Chardonnays and I must say, it was truly a pleasant endeavor. As a connoisseur of wine, I am always grateful for the chance to discover various types and compare them directly. In this article, I will happily share my own thoughts and remarks on which La Crema Chardonnay I find to be the superior of the two.
La Crema Chardonnay – Sonoma Coast
Let’s start with the La Crema Chardonnay from the Sonoma Coast. This particular varietal is known for its vibrant fruit flavors and crisp acidity. Upon my first sip, I was immediately greeted with a burst of citrus and tropical fruit notes, namely pineapple and lemon. The wine had a medium body with a smooth and velvety texture, which added to its overall elegance. I found it to be well-balanced, with a refreshing acidity that didn’t overpower the fruit flavors. There was also a subtle hint of vanilla and a touch of oak on the finish, which added a nice layer of complexity.
As I continued to savor each sip, I couldn’t help but appreciate the careful craftsmanship that went into creating this Chardonnay. The grapes are sourced from select vineyards along the Sonoma Coast, where the cool climate and maritime influences contribute to the wine’s exceptional quality. La Crema’s commitment to sustainable farming practices further enhances the wine’s appeal, as I believe it’s important to support wineries that prioritize environmental stewardship.
La Crema Chardonnay – Russian River Valley
Now, let’s shift our attention to the La Crema Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley. This region is renowned for producing Chardonnays with intense fruit flavors and a distinct minerality. True to its origins, this Chardonnay showcased flavors of ripe apple, pear, and stone fruits. The wine had a slightly fuller body compared to the Sonoma Coast varietal, with a luscious mouthfeel that coated my palate. I also detected a subtle oak influence, adding a layer of creaminess and a touch of baking spices to the overall profile.
One aspect that stood out to me about the Russian River Valley Chardonnay was its impressive balance. The bright acidity was impeccably integrated, allowing the fruit flavors to shine while maintaining a sense of freshness. The wine had a lingering finish, leaving me with a desire for another sip. It’s evident that La Crema’s winemaking expertise plays a significant role in crafting a Chardonnay that truly embodies the essence of the Russian River Valley.
Final Thoughts
After careful consideration and a thorough evaluation, I must admit that choosing a definitive “better” Chardonnay between the La Crema Sonoma Coast and Russian River Valley is a difficult task. Both wines have their unique qualities and characteristics that make them exceptional in their own right. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for in a Chardonnay.
If you enjoy a Chardonnay with bright fruit flavors, vibrant acidity, and a touch of oak, the La Crema Sonoma Coast would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a Chardonnay with fuller body, intense fruit flavors, and a hint of minerality, the La Crema Russian River Valley would be more to your liking. Whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong with either of these exceptional Chardonnays from La Crema.
So, go ahead and explore the world of La Crema Chardonnays. Each bottle offers a unique journey that is sure to please even the most discerning palate. Cheers to the art of winemaking and the joy it brings to our lives!
