Let's talk little, let's talk wine
Description of Domaine Calera:
Perched in the mountains of California's Central Coast, Domaine Calera is revered for its pioneering approach to altitude winemaking. Founded by Josh Jensen, this estate is distinguished by its commitment to producing wines that faithfully reflect their unique terroir, through careful growing methods and a deep respect for nature. The Calera vineyards benefit from an ideal microclimate, characterized by warm days and cool nights, perfect for the development of exceptional Chardonnay grapes.
Description of the Cuvée Calera Chardonnay:
Cuvée Calera Chardonnay is a remarkable expression of the grape variety, grown in the unique conditions of the Central Coast's high altitude vineyards. This wine illustrates the estate's talent for creating Chardonnays of exceptional depth and complexity, marking each vintage with its unparalleled quality. Vinified with care to preserve the purity of the fruit and the finesse of the aromas, this Chardonnay is a tribute to the richness of the Californian terroir.
Aromas of the Cuvée:
Offering a range of seductive aromas, this Chardonnay reveals notes of green apple, pear, and lemon, enhanced with subtle touches of vanilla and almond, the result of judicious aging in oak barrels. Its complexity is enhanced by a delicate minerality, testifying to the volcanic origin of its soils.
Characteristics of the Cuvée:
- Grape variety: 100% Chardonnay
- Aging: Matured in oak barrels to enrich its complexity while maintaining the balance between fruity aromas and woody notes.
- Profile: A balanced and elegant Chardonnay, with a beautiful acidity which supports its structure and promises good evolution over time.
- Aging Potential: This wine can be enjoyed now but also has aging potential which will reward patience.
Pairings with this Cuvée:
Calera Chardonnay pairs perfectly with refined cuisine, such as seafood, chicken or pork dishes, or even pasta with creamy sauces. Its elegance and finesse make it a preferred choice for special occasions.
Where are we traveling?
California
While 50 American states produce wine, Californian production alone represents about 85% of the country's production, making this state the 4th largest producer in the world behind Italy, France and Spain. The climate is strongly influenced by the Pacific Ocean, which at this latitude is a cold ocean. The wine regions located near the Pacific have an oceanic climate that becomes Mediterranean the further inland you move from the ocean and it becomes more continental near the Sierra Nevada. Bays and openings to the sea, such as San Pablo Bay, act as thermal regulators on viticulture, particularly in Napa and Sonoma Valley.
The little history of the country
UNITED STATES
In the United States, 90% of the wine produced comes from California. It was the influx of gold prospectors to California that boosted the California wine industry in the mid-19th century, particularly in the Sonoma and Napa region. At the start of the 20th century, there were 800 wineries. From 1919 to 1933 Prohibition destroyed the vast majority of the California wine industry so that by 1933, only 140 wineries remained producing wine. It was only from 1960 that the wine industry began to recover from Prohibition and California was primarily known for the production of fortified wines (in the style of Port). It was also in the 1960s that some of the most famous estates were created (Mondavi, Heitz Wine Cellars, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, etc...). In 1976, a significant event took place: the legendary tasting competition better known as the "Judgment of Paris". He sees the greatest French wines opposing the new American wines. This May 24, an unexpected result shakes the world of wine, since to everyone's surprise, it is the United States which wins. However, this competition remains relatively unknown to the general public. Today, there is no doubt that the United States produces great wines. Even though California largely monopolizes the reputation of American wines with its excellent Zinfandels, the state of Oregon produces some of the best Pinot Noir in the world and the state of Washington offers excellent Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet-Sauvignon.