Goldschmidt Vineyards The Verge Chardonnay 2022 750ml

Product Info

Terroir
The Verge Chardonnay draws its character from carefully selected coastal-influenced vineyards in Sonoma County, where Goldschmidt focuses on sites combining elevation, well-drained soils, and extended sunlight exposure. The parcels used for this cuvée typically sit on a patchwork of volcanic material, sandy loam, and gravelly subsoils—conditions that naturally limit vigor and enhance flavor concentration in the fruit. Cooling afternoon winds and dramatic diurnal shifts preserve acidity and slow ripening, allowing the grapes to accumulate phenolic depth without sacrificing freshness. This interplay of warmth and coastal moderation produces Chardonnay with both weight and tension, a signature of the region’s most expressive bottlings.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
Nick Goldschmidt’s approach with The Verge highlights precision and purity while still embracing a generous, modern California style. The fruit is hand-harvested at night to maintain aromatic delicacy, then softly pressed into a mix of French oak barrels—often with a thoughtful combination of new and neutral oak to layer texture without overwhelming detail. Partial native fermentation contributes complexity, while controlled malolactic fermentation is allowed to proceed only where it naturally harmonizes with acidity, shaping the wine’s creamy mid-palate without dulling its edges. Lees stirring adds depth, roundness, and a lightly savory dimension. Aging typically extends for several months, giving the wine time to knit its citrus, orchard, and oak-derived components into a seamless whole.

Tasting Notes
The Verge Chardonnay 2022 opens with an expansive aromatic profile—ripe pear, golden apple, Meyer lemon oil, and a thread of white peach, all lifted by hints of honeysuckle and toasted hazelnut. On the palate, the wine balances richness with precision: a broad, silky mouthfeel supported by bright, coastal-derived acidity. Flavors of baked apple, lemon curd, brioche, and vanilla bean unfold in layers, complemented by mineral undertones and a subtle saline note that adds definition. The oak influence is present but woven, contributing spice and structure without overshadowing the fruit. The finish is long and polished, carrying lingering impressions of citrus zest, crème fraîche, and warm spice.

Food Pairing & Service
This Chardonnay’s combination of weight and freshness makes it versatile at the table. It shines with roasted chicken and thyme, seared scallops, shrimp risotto, or richer seafood preparations like halibut in beurre blanc. Its acidity also cuts beautifully through creamy dishes—mushroom pasta, truffle polenta, or soft-ripened cheeses such as Brie or Délice de Bourgogne. Serve at 50–54°F (10–12°C) to highlight its structure and allow its oak-derived aromatics to emerge gradually as the wine warms in the glass.