Mill Creek Vineyards & Winery Estate Chardonnay, Dry Creek Valley, California

2025 Mill Creek Vineyards & Winery Estate Unoaked Chardonnay is a fresh, delicately textured expression of Chardonnay from the family's estate vineyards in Dry Creek Valley. Harvested in the cool early morning hours of September, the grapes were lightly trodden and whole-cluster pressed to preserve their bright fruit character and clean structure. Cool fermentation in stainless steel emphasizes the wine's floral aromatics and natural freshness, while four months of restrained barrel aging introduce a subtle softness without overwhelming the fruit. Crisp Gravenstein apple, ripe pear and white peach define this elegant Chardonnay, offering a graceful balance of freshness, gentle richness and a beautifully composed finish.

Product Details:

• Owners: Bill and Yvonne Kreck
• Winemaker & Vineyard Manager: Jeremy Kreck
• Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay
• Vineyard Source: Estate-grown fruit
• Farming: Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing
• Harvest: Early September 2025, during the cool morning hours
• Fruit Preparation: Lightly trodden before pressing
• Pressing: Whole-cluster pressing
• Fermentation: Cool-temperature fermentation in 100% stainless steel
• Aging: Four months in barrel
• ABV: 14.2%
• Oak: 20% new barrels, with a very light oak influence
• Production: 192 cases

Sensory Description:

Light straw yellow in the glass, with delicate aromas of ripe melon, fresh pear and honeysuckle, complemented by subtle floral and lightly caramelized nuances. The palate is bright and inviting, revealing crisp Gravenstein apple, juicy pear and white peach. A restrained touch of oak adds softness and gentle complexity without masking the wine's lively fruit character. Moderate acidity supports a clean, refreshing mouthfeel, leading to a crisp finish accented by lingering notes of white peach.

Winemaker's Background:

Mill Creek Vineyards & Winery is a family-owned estate whose roots in Dry Creek Valley stretch back to 1964, when Charles Kreck and his sons began planting vineyards, including the valley's first Cabernet Sauvignon vines. The family purchased its present Westside Road property in 1969, converting former prune orchards into vineyards and beginning commercial wine production in 1974. Brothers Bill and Bob Kreck helped develop the estate's vineyards and winery, while Bill and Yvonne Kreck continued building its reputation for family hospitality. Today, Mill Creek remains closely connected to its agricultural heritage, with several generations of the Kreck family involved in the business.

Third-generation winemaker Jeremy Kreck took over winemaking in 2004 and also serves as the estate's vineyard manager. Growing up in Alexander Valley, he developed his understanding of farming through hands-on work in the family's vineyards, shaping a vineyard-first approach that guides his winemaking decisions. Jeremy combines traditional cellar practices with thoughtful experimentation, seeking to preserve the distinctive character of each grape variety and vineyard site. His leadership has supported the estate's continued development and commitment to responsible farming, including its achievement of Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing status in 2017.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve lightly chilled at approximately 9-11°C to highlight its delicate floral aromas, crisp fruit and subtle texture. This Chardonnay pairs particularly well with pan-seared scallops, grilled shrimp, delicate white fish and roast chicken with fresh herbs. Its gentle richness also complements creamy vegetable risotto, soft cheeses and lightly dressed salads. Equally appealing as an aperitif, it offers a refreshing choice for relaxed gatherings and meals centered on fresh, seasonal ingredients.