Wine Spotlight: Exploring the Elegance of Cantadora "Heart Of Gold" Chardonnay, Napa Valley, 2022 ...Now Pouring By The Glass!
- David Gabiné
- Oct 14
- 4 min read
When you think of California wines, Chardonnay often comes to mind as a true representation of the state’s charm. Among these impressive wines, the Cantadora "Heart Of Gold" Chardonnay from Napa Valley stands out as an exceptional option. This 2022 vintage isn’t just a drink; it’s a remarkable experience that mirrors the unique qualities of Napa Valley and the mastery of its winemaker, Kira Ballotta. In this post, we will explore its characteristics, tasting notes, and the overall sophistication of this exquisite Chardonnay, as well as the story behind the wine.
The Essence of Napa Valley Chardonnay
Napa Valley is famous for its unique microclimates and fertile soils, making it a prime location for cultivating high-quality Chardonnay grapes. The Cantadora "Heart Of Gold" Chardonnay reflects this rich tradition. The grapes are sourced from Linda Vista Vineyard and thrive in the valley's distinctive climate. The Linda Vista vineyard just south of the Oakville AVA in Napa is organically and regeneratively farmed by Steve Matthiasson. The vines were originally planted in 1989 by Beringer. The cool winds and clay soils here preserve zesty acidity and freshness, while the Napa sun provides richness and ripeness. The moderate alcohol and mouthwatering acidity that is a trademark of that vineyard is very much present, balanced by a luscious creaminess.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
When you pour a glass of Cantadora "Heart Of Gold" Chardonnay, you are welcomed by a brilliant golden hue that hints at the richness within. The aroma instantly captivates you with notes of ripe pear, crisp green apple, and a splash of citrus zest. There's also a soft floral scent that adds layers of complexity.
On the palate, this Chardonnay achieves a delightful balance of fruit and acidity, it has a verve of bright apple flavors, hints of pear and stone fruits, mixed with subtle florals and gentle minerality - a purity of fruit that sings. In contrast, it also has an elegant, silky mouthfeel that lingers on the palate in a cerebral way.
The Story Behind Cantadora
Cantadora represents more than just a brand; it embodies a commitment to excellence in winemaking, and Kira believes in creating wines that tell a story, not only with their flavors and the terroir from which the grapes are grown, but also in a true sense of storytelling about special individuals. Each wine tells the story of a woman and how she gives back to the world.
Notes From The Winemaker
"This Chardonnay proved the most difficult of the 2022 vintage to make. It was truly a testament to “the work you put in is what you get out”. It is a beautiful, pure, crisp, aromatic, almost effortless expression of Chardonnay. But the focus required to guide this wine to its fantastical conclusion proved formidable.
What I like about Chardonnay I can thread a needle with, so that was the biggest hurdle. It could not be too rich, it could not be too acidic, it would need to be aromatic without butter or oak. It could not be so acidic the site did not express. The structure had to be silky and finish on minerality.
I kept straddling all these elements until I got the wine I earned. I love this wine, it’s picture perfect in its finesse. It brims with lemon custard, baked green apples, and a gently minerality on the finish. It feels silky and luxurious on the palate without any oak or butter. Enjoy my penultimate express of Napa Valley Chardonnay".
Cantadora wines are dedicated to the enduring stories of women and the ways they give back.
"Heart of Gold" is Dedicated to the story and legacy of Dr. Michelle Asha Albert.
"Dr. Albert has a smile that literally lights up a room. When I was making the Chardonnay from Napa Valley for her, my primary goal was to capture that energy in a bottle. She has a warmth and zest that is bolstered by a solemn commitment to facts and research. Her serious approach to her professional life as the Dean of Admissions for the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) Medical School and a leading cardiologist is blended with her personal love for fashion and planning intricate and joyful events for family and friends. It is almost a paradox and I wanted that complexity in a glass of wine for her".
The Cantadora Woman:
Dr. Michelle A. Albert, MD MPH is the Walter A. Haas-Lucie Stern Endowed Chair in Cardiology and Professor in Medicine at the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF), Admissions Dean for UCSF Medical School and Director of the CeNter for the StUdy of AdveRsiTy and CardiovascUlaR DiseasE (NURTURE Center). She aims to address Lifecourse Adversity on Health and provide impactful mentorship.
Read More About Dr. Albert's Story
A Celebration of Elegance
The 2022 Cantadora "Heart Of Gold" Chardonnay from Napa Valley is more than just a wine; it represents the artistry of winemaking and the captivating character of the Napa Valley terroir. Its inviting aromas, well-balanced flavors, and elegant finish make this Chardonnay a must-try for any wine lover. We are proud to be pouring this wine by the glass and as part of one of our thoughtfully curated wine flights. Try a glass (or a Bottle) on your next visit to Le Central.
Santé!
For fellow wine geeks, heres some technical info:
Vintage:
2022
Varietal:
Chardonnay
Growers:
Steve Matthiasson
Winemaker:
Kira Ballotta
Vineyards:
Linda Vista Vineyard
Barrel Aging:
10mo Neutral French Oak
Cases Produced:
100
Composition:
100% Chardonnay
Alcohol:
13.0
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