Rich is the word that best both describes Chardonnay and explains its popularity. Its aroma is distinct, yet delicate, difficult to characterize, easier to recognize. It often smells like apples, lemons, peaches or tropical fruits. Its delicacy is such that even a small percentage of another varietal blended into a Chardonnay will often completely dominate its aroma and flavor. Oak commonly takes over Chardonnay if the wine is fermented or aged in new barrels or for too long in seasoned ones.

To avoid "over oaking" their wines, Thomas Clay uses a combination of neutral and new oak to create a delicate balance between the fruit and oak. To add to the rich notes inherent with Chardonnay we stirred the lees during fermentation. Thomas Clay Chardonnay has notes of vanilla, pineapple and citrus. This complex, yet easy to drink wine, is an ideal match for shellfish, salads and pastas with cream sauces.

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Last modified: 04/10/08