2018 Carte Blanche UV Chardonnay

The 2018 Carte Blanche UV Chardonnay is a beautifully sculpted expression of Old Wente clone Chardonnay from Sonoma County, crafted in tiny quantities for those who value precision and depth in their whites. Sourced from the famed UV Vineyard just a few miles from the Pacific, it marries coastal freshness with generous Californian texture. This bottling captures the historic Wente selection at its purest, offering a modern, polished interpretation of a classic California Chardonnay heritage.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2018 UV Chardonnay is pale to medium gold with a luminous, almost crystalline clarity that hints at its energy and tension. The nose opens with a striking mineral edge—think wet stone and chalk—wrapped in aromas of orange blossom, mandarin zest, fresh ginger and blanched almond. With air, subtle notes of brioche and Meyer lemon curd begin to emerge, adding both richness and complexity without ever feeling heavy. On the palate, this is a Chardonnay of real density and drive. Flavors of Asian pear, citrusy mandarin, Meyer lemon and delicate orchard fruit glide across the tongue, supported by a fine, almost saline backbone that speaks to its coastal origins. The texture is simultaneously silky and vibrant, with a light phenolic grip that frames the wine and carries a long, precise finish. While already beautifully composed and approachable now, the 2018 has the structure and acidity to age gracefully for 5–8 years, developing additional layers of creaminess, honeyed citrus and nutty complexity over time.

Production
The UV Vineyard lies roughly six miles from the cool Pacific Ocean in Sonoma County, where fog-laden mornings, breezy afternoons and a unique blend of sandy soils and the famed 'Sebastopol Clays' shape the character of the fruit. These conditions naturally limit yields and extend the growing season, allowing the Old Wente Chardonnay clone to develop intense flavor while retaining brisk acidity. Grapes are typically harvested by hand at optimal ripeness to preserve freshness and nuance, then gently pressed and fermented—often in French oak barrels—to build texture and complexity. Careful élevage, with attentive lees work and judicious use of new oak, results in a wine that emphasizes clarity, balance and varietal purity rather than overt power.

Food & Serving
This refined yet textural Chardonnay is a versatile partner at the table, pairing beautifully with dishes such as seared scallops, poached lobster, roast chicken with lemon and herbs, or richer preparations of halibut and turbot. Its citrus and mineral notes also work well with sushi, sashimi and lightly spiced Asian cuisine, while the brioche and almond nuances complement creamy sauces and mild, semi-hard cheeses. Serve at 10–12°C (50–54°F) to highlight its precision and aromatic lift. A short decant of 20–30 minutes, or simply opening the bottle a bit before serving, helps the wine fully unfurl its layers.

Producer
Carte Blanche is a boutique American wine project dedicated to producing small-lot, vineyard-driven wines from some of California’s most esteemed sites. By working with top growers like the late Ulises Valdez and his family—stewards of the highly regarded UV Vineyard and its historic Old Wente Chardonnay clone—Carte Blanche has earned a reputation for wines that seamlessly blend Old World finesse with New World generosity. In Sonoma County, their focus on exacting viticulture, careful selection of terroir and meticulous cellar work has positioned them among the region’s most compelling producers of premium Chardonnay and other fine varietals.

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