Black Stallion 2016 Chardonnay, Napa Valley

Located right on the Silverado Trail, the Black Stallion Estate winery is named in honor of the former Silverado Horsemen's Center that was once located there. The winery is owned by the Delicato family with a history spanning three generations and more than 85 years. The family is very involved with all aspects, producing fine Napa Valley wine from vineyards throughout the valley and crafting high quality wines that are elegant and distinctive yet approachable like this one. The fruit used to craft this full-flavored Napa Valley Chardonnay was sourced from both warmer, upper valley vineyards, and lower, cooler vineyard blocks, resulting in a balanced blend of ripe, rich flavors and aromas, vibrant acidity and soft structure. Picked in the cool mornings, the fruit was brought to the winery where it was gently pressed into barrel and tanks. The barrel fermented portion was placed in 85% French oak and 15% American oak, 30% new, and left on primary lees for seven months, with stirring twice per month to increase texture and complexity. James Suckling scored this 92 points saying "A clean and bright white with sliced apples, lemon zest and hot stones. Hints of malo. Medium body and lots of fruit. Yet, it remains bright and fresh. Clean and crisp. Drink now."