Forget your average white wine. Imagine swirling a glass of liquid sunshine, its vibrant green hue hinting at its youthful spirit. Breathe in the captivating aroma – a symphony of ripe peaches, honeydew, and a touch of vanilla, all whispering promises of an unforgettable journey. This, my friends, is the Rombauer Chardonnay 2019 , and it’s not just a drink, it’s an experience in a bottle.
| Exact Wine Name: Rombauer Chardonnay 2019 (also available as Rombauer Proprietor Selection Chardonnay 2019) Producer: Rombauer Vineyards Country/Region of Origin: United States, Carneros AVA (within Napa Valley and Sonoma County) Grape Varietal(s): 100% Chardonnay Type: White Wine Style: Rich, medium-bodied, oak-aged Chardonnay Vintage Year: 2019 Price Range: $40-$50 USD ABV: 14.5% Aroma Profile: Ripe peach, honeydew, lemon rind, vanilla, spice, buttered orchard fruits, Meyer lemon Flavor Profile: Lychee, yellow peach, cream, vanilla, butter, spice, nectarine Peak Drinking Window: Now – 2026 |
Testing Notes
The first thing that struck me about the 2019 Rombauer Chardonnay was its vibrant color. It wasn’t your typical pale yellow, but instead had a beautiful green hue that hinted at its youthful character. Swirling it in the glass released a delightful bouquet of aromas – ripe peaches and honeydew mingled with a touch of lemon zest and vanilla bean. I couldn’t wait to take a sip.
The first taste was smooth and creamy, almost like biting into a perfectly ripe peach. The fruit flavors were balanced by a refreshing acidity that kept it from being overly sweet. Hints of oak peeked through, adding a touch of complexity without being overpowering. I found myself swirling the wine in my mouth, savoring the lingering notes of spice and buttered toast.
The texture was pure luxury – rich and silky without being heavy. It clung to the palate beautifully, leaving a pleasant warmth behind. Each sip was a revelation, with new flavors unfolding layer by layer. While some might find the oak influence a bit strong, I personally enjoyed the way it complemented the fruit and added depth to the experience.
Positives
- Rich and complex flavor profile
- Balanced acidity
- Smooth and creamy texture
- Well-respected producer
Negatives
- Can be oaky for some preferences
- Pricey compared to some other Chardonnays
Breakdown
- Drinkability 4.5/5
- Food Pairing 4.0/5
- Value for Money 4.5/5
- Personal Preference 4.5/5
This Chardonnay is certainly not for the faint of heart. It’s bold, assertive, and packed with flavor. But for those who appreciate a rich, complex white wine, it’s a true delight. I paired it with a simple roasted chicken with thyme, and the combination was heavenly. The wine stood up to the richness of the dish without overwhelming it, and the pairing truly elevated both the food and the wine.
Overall, I was thoroughly impressed by the 2019 Rombauer Chardonnay. It’s a well-crafted wine with a distinct personality that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for a Chardonnay that’s both luxurious and food-friendly, I highly recommend giving this one a try. It’s not your everyday white, but it’s definitely one for special occasions.
A Luxurious Journey for Your Palate
The 2019 Rombauer Chardonnay isn’t just a glass of wine, it’s an invitation to a luxurious sensory experience. Its vibrant green hue hints at its youthful character, while the swirling aromas of ripe peaches, honeydew, and a touch of vanilla beckon you closer. But the true magic lies in the pairings that elevate this Chardonnay to new heights.
Food Pairings: A Symphony of Flavors:
Tuna-Avocado Burgers: A playful dance of textures! Cool avocado tempers the creamy richness of the Chardonnay, creating a refreshing and satisfying bite.
Lobster Rolls: Pure indulgence! The briny sweetness of lobster intertwines beautifully with the oaky notes of the Chardonnay.
Fettuccine with Salmon & Asparagus: Pure luxury! The creamy sauce of this dish mirrors the smooth texture of the Chardonnay, while the delicate salmon flavors complement the wine’s fruitiness, creating a decadent experience.
Grilled Chicken with Caramelized Onions: A twist on tradition! Caramelized onions bring out the subtle sweetness of the Chardonnay
Remember:
Avoid overpowering flavors: Steer clear of heavily spiced dishes that might drown out the wine’s nuances.
Skip the saccharine sweetness: Very sweet desserts will clash with the Chardonnay’s complexity.
When to Indulge: Celebrate the Extraordinary:
Rombauer 2019 isn’t meant for everyday quaffing. Reserve it for moments that deserve a touch of grandeur:
Mark a special occasion: Pop open a bottle on your anniversary, creating a memory filled with intimate conversation and the wine’s luxurious taste.
Impress your guests: Host a dinner party and let the Chardonnay’s pedigree and flavor profile wow your company.
Treat yourself: Unwind after a long day, savoring each sip and appreciating the craftsmanship in the glass.
With the right food pairings and a special occasion, the 2019 Rombauer Chardonnay becomes more than just a drink. It’s a journey for your senses, a celebration of life’s extraordinary moments. So, uncork the bottle and let the indulgence begin!
A Toast to Extraordinary Moments
The 2019 Rombauer Chardonnay is more than just a glass of wine, it’s an invitation to celebrate life’s extraordinary moments. So, whether you’re raising a toast to an anniversary, impressing guests with culinary flair, or simply indulging in a luxurious self-care evening, let this Chardonnay be the soundtrack to your memory-making. Uncork the bottle, savor each sip, and let the journey begin. Cheers!
Rombauer Chardonnay 2019 FAQs
Is Rombauer Chardonnay a good wine?
Goodness is subjective, but Rombauer Chardonnay enjoys a well-deserved reputation for excellence. It consistently receives high scores from critics and boasts passionate fans worldwide. While its oak-influenced, rich style might not appeal to everyone, it’s undoubtedly a well-crafted wine.
Where is Rombauer Chardonnay from?
This Chardonnay proudly hails from the Carneros AVA, a unique region straddling both Napa Valley and Sonoma County in California. This cool climate region allows grapes to develop slowly, resulting in complex flavors and balanced acidity.
Is Rombauer Napa or Sonoma?
Neither! Although the grapes source from both Napa and Sonoma within the Carneros AVA, the Rombauer winery itself resides in Napa Valley.
What is Rombauer famous for?
Rombauer built is reputation on its signature Chardonnay, particularly known for its rich, creamy texture, oak influence, and notes of fruit and spice. They also produce small-batch Chardonnay bottlings from specific vineyards showcasing unique terroir expressions.
How much sugar is in a Rombauer Chardonnay?
The exact sugar content varies slightly by vintage but typically falls around 4-5 grams per liter.
Is Rombauer dry?
While not bone-dry, Rombauer Chardonnay falls closer to the off-dry side of the spectrum. It undergoes malolactic fermentation, converting some of the grape’s tart malic acid into softer lactic acid, contributing to its creamy texture and perceived sweetness. However, the fruit acidity remains balanced, avoiding excessive sweetness.
