Mojave Fallenleaf Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2022

Our hunt for delicious, affordable Chardonnay is always ongoing. The fires of 2020 highlighted how important it is for brands to have both whites and reds in their portfolio in case a fire season wipes out all possibility of putting red wine in bottle. As a result, white wine varietals have skyrocketed in price. Add to the rising cost of grapes that the ACME ladies tend to lean towards Chardonnays that see a bit of new oak, and you can understand why finding a lights-out Chardonnay for a great price has become quite challenging. But you know we love a challenge...

Becky is an up-and-coming winemaker to watch! After winning a fellowship from Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, Becky spent a harvest at Domaine Méo-Camuzet in Vosne-Romanée where some of the most celebrated of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines are made. Once back home in California, she continued her exploration of Burgundian varietals as the assistant winemaker at Schramsberg, the famous Napa Valley sparkling wine producer. She also worked in the cellar of high-end Chardonnay and Pinot producer Williams-Selyem and under Helen Turley’s tutelage at Marcassin. She joined the winemaking team at Kelly Fleming in 2011, and by 2013, her ability to make elegant and refined Cabernet earned her the title of winemaker, a position that she held until 2021. Today, Mojave has her full attention, and you can taste her passion and excitement!

Becky's Chardonnay made Karen and I do a happy dance! What struck us most was the weight of this wine. It rests in the center of your palate and expands broadly and softly, offering what we deem to be the perfect mid-body texture that leads to a lengthy, balanced finish. Notes of brioche, guava, and unctuous lemon pith are both delightfully refreshing and satiating. We felt, after our first sip, truly content with all things in that moment. And this is why we love our jobs.