Introduction
Revana Brown Ranch Chardonnay Carneros 2017 is an elegant and meticulously crafted expression of Chardonnay, showcasing the refined character and cool-climate precision for which Carneros is celebrated. Produced by Revana Family Vineyard, known primarily for their esteemed Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons but also dedicated to exceptional Chardonnays, this wine originates from the venerable Brown Ranch vineyard in the Carneros AVA. This region, straddling Napa and Sonoma counties, is uniquely influenced by the cooling fogs and breezes from San Pablo Bay, creating a long, consistent growing season ideal for preserving Chardonnay’s natural acidity while developing complex fruit and nuanced textures. The 2017 vintage in Carneros, despite some regional challenges elsewhere in California, generally provided excellent conditions for Chardonnay, resulting in grapes with beautiful ripeness, vibrant acidity, and refined concentration, setting the stage for a wine of remarkable balance, depth, and a classic sense of place.
Character Description
The Revana Brown Ranch Chardonnay Carneros 2017 enchants with a brilliant, golden straw hue, indicative of its richness and clarity. It offers an intensely aromatic and captivating bouquet of ripe Golden Delicious apple, juicy pear, and bright lemon curd, elegantly interwoven with inviting notes of toasted hazelnut, crème brûlée, subtle vanilla bean, and a delicate hint of wet stone minerality. Underlying nuances of a faint baking spice and a touch of savory leesiness may also emerge, adding layers of profound complexity and aristocratic sophistication. On the palate, it delivers a medium to full-bodied and beautifully textured experience, with concentrated orchard fruit and citrus flavors that mirror the nose, complemented by a creamy mid-palate from judicious oak aging and malolactic fermentation. It’s supported by bright, yet seamlessly integrated acidity that provides a lively structure and a long, expansive finish, ensuring freshness and remarkable precision. The finish is exceptionally long, intensely layered, and profoundly elegant, leaving a lingering impression of rich fruit, subtle oak spice, and the formidable, yet exquisitely balanced, character that defines a truly iconic, terroir-driven Carneros Chardonnay.
Perfect Pairings
This rich and intricately flavored Chardonnay is an exceptional partner for a wide range of elegant and substantial dishes, perfectly complementing its creamy texture, vibrant acidity, and complex layers of fruit and oak. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken with herbs and lemon, pan-seared scallops or halibut with a rich beurre blanc sauce, or creamy pasta dishes featuring wild mushrooms or lobster. Its balanced acidity and subtle richness also make it an ideal accompaniment to pork tenderloin with apple chutney, richer fish preparations, or delicate veal dishes. Furthermore, it excels alongside aged, firm cheeses like Gruyère or Comté, and dishes incorporating a hint of toasted nuts. Its profound depth and compelling qualities make it a fantastic choice for a sophisticated dinner, a gathering of discerning palates, or for those who appreciate a classic and authentic white wine that truly expresses the pinnacle of Carneros Chardonnay.
About the Winery
Revana Family Vineyard, though widely recognized for its top-tier Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa Valley, extends its commitment to excellence to other noble varietals from exceptional sites. Founded by Dr. Madaiah Revana, a cardiologist with a passion for world-class wines, the winery operates on the principle that truly great wines begin with exceptional vineyards and meticulous viticulture. Their approach to Chardonnay, exemplified by the Brown Ranch bottling, reflects the same dedication to quality, site-specificity, and thoughtful winemaking. Sourcing from the esteemed Brown Ranch in Carneros highlights their belief in the unique potential of this cool-climate region for Chardonnay. Their winemaking philosophy focuses on precision and balance, allowing the inherent qualities of the fruit and terroir to shine through with elegance and complexity. Revana Family Vineyard consistently delivers wines of profound character and sophistication, making this Chardonnay a true representation of their unwavering pursuit of excellence across their portfolio.
