Chardonnay Carneros

A Chardonnay that combines the cool elegance of the Carneros region with Californian ripeness — freshly structured, aromatically precise, and dry.

Behind this is the Schug family winery in Sonoma County. Walter Schug left the Rheingau region of Germany for California in 1960, helped Joseph Phelps lay the foundation for the legendary Insignia winery, and played a crucial role in shaping the style of Californian Pinot Noir. Today, his children Claudia, Andrea, and Axel continue to run the winery. Johannes Scheid, with his Mosel experience and the precise craftsmanship that Walter Schug once brought with him, is the head winemaker responsible for the cellar.

The Carneros AVA lies on the northern shore of San Pablo Bay: cold morning mists and cool afternoon winds from the Pacific ensure slow ripening and a pronounced acidity. In the glass, the Chardonnay displays aromas of citrus, pear, and ripe apple, embedded in a spicy bouquet. The acidity keeps the finish fresh and crisp—not a heavy, buttery, opulent style, but rather the mineral character that defines this cool location.

Pairs well with seared scallops, chicken with lemon sauce, or mature Brie. Serving temperature: 10–12 °C.