In 1972 Jim Barrett, son of a Waterford immigrant, purchased the historic 100 hectare property which lies 3.5 kilometres north of Calistoga, at the base of Mount St. Helena. Under Jim Barrett’s guidance the château’s vineyards were replanted and a modern winery was installed and in 1976 his vision was rewarded by winning the famous ‘Judgement of Paris’ when his Chardonnay beat 4 white Burgundies and five other Californian Chardonnays in a blind tasting that rocked the wine world.
Producer
Chateau Montelena
Tasting Notes
One of the few California Chardonnays that behaves like a grand cru Chablis. Exhibits a nervous edge as well as loads of lemon butter, green apple, and white currant-like characteristics, laser-like precision, superb acidity, and surprising intensity as well as richness.