TOR Wines 'Torchiana' Beresini Vineyard Chardonnay, Carneros, California

The 2021 TOR Wines 'Torchiana' Beresini Vineyard Chardonnay from Carneros captures the elegance and nuance of its small, historic vineyard origins. This single-vineyard Chardonnay, crafted from the Hyde Selection Wente Clone, offers a refined expression of both site and vintage. The vines, now over 30 years old, produce an exceptionally low yield of compact clusters, resulting in concentrated flavors and remarkable depth. Meticulously made with a Burgundian-inspired approach, this wine showcases the timeless synergy between Old World techniques and New World fruit.

Product Details

• ABV: 14.7%
• Blend: 100% Chardonnay
• Vineyard: Beresini Vineyard, Carneros, planted with the Hyde Selection Wente Clone
• Aging: Barrel fermented and aged in premium French oak, using Saury and Damy barrels, three-year dry-aged at medium toast levels
• Fermentation: Native yeast for both primary and secondary fermentations
• Bottling: Unfined and unfiltered

Sensory Description
On the nose, this Chardonnay greets you with enchanting floral aromas of jasmine, intertwined with hints of white peach and chamomile tea. The palate unfolds with a luscious, rounded texture, offering layers of crème brûlée, toasted almond, and a subtle minerality that adds balance. Its silky, extended finish is a testament to both the meticulous crafting and the vineyard’s character. The 2021 vintage reveals an intriguing tension—vibrant yet poised—that underscores its potential for further evolution.

Winemaker's Background
TOR Wines was founded by Tor Kenward, a Napa Valley pioneer with over four decades of winemaking expertise. His passion for creating terroir-driven wines has been a guiding principle, with a focus on small-lot, single-vineyard bottlings that reflect the essence of their origins. The Beresini Vineyard, a site introduced to Tor by his close friend Larry Hyde in 2008, epitomizes this philosophy. The vineyard's minuscule yields and unique clone selection have become a cornerstone for TOR’s Chardonnay program, delivering wines of unparalleled concentration and finesse.

Serving Suggestions
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Chardonnay slightly chilled at approximately 50–55°F. Its rich and textured profile pairs beautifully with dishes like seared scallops, lobster risotto, or a creamy wild mushroom pasta. For lighter fare, consider a simple roast chicken or grilled vegetables to highlight the wine's delicate floral and almond nuances. This vintage will also reward patience, evolving gracefully over the next decade or more.