RouteStock creates wines from classic grape varieties grown along well-known routes in the world’s most respected wine regions. Tried, trusted and true to their routes, these wines are handcrafted by our winemakers to be approachable and a reliable favorite.

Route 121

Route 121 meanders through Carneros (“ram” in Spanish), a region once known for its sheep populations. On a drive down Route 121 you will pass many of the vineyards that supplied perfectly ripe grapes for this Carneros Chardonnay.

Carneros is well-known as a cool-climate region, perfect for growing Chardonnay. The morning fog and afternoon breezes off the chilly San Pablo Bay cool the region, while the Napa and Sonoma valleys to the north heat it up. This heat causes the air to draw inland over Carneros, drying the vines of the moist morning fog. As night falls, the fog rolls in, protecting the vines from potential morning sun.

A warm, dry spring brought early budbreak, helped with canopy vigor and berry size, and created ideal conditions for flowering and fruit set under sunny skies. With the exception of one heat spike in late June/early July, temperatures were consistently in the zone for optimal vine activity, resulting in notably healthy vines as fruit went through veraison and started ripening. The start of harvest was the earliest in recent history, about two weeks earlier than other Napa Valley harvests in the last decade. Yields on the whole have been above average. –Napa Valley Vintners: Napa Valley Harvest Report 2013

The 2013 Routestock Carneros Chardonnay has a delightful pale straw color with lime hues. The aromas are of honeysuckle, orange blossom and crème brûlée with layers of vanilla and a hint of toffee. The palate is lively yet soft with flavors of lemon cream pie and merange. Try this wine with fresh sole meunier with a butter caper sauce and asparagus. Delicious. Wayne Donaldson, Winemaker