Wine Of The Week: Enfield ‘Citrine’ Chardonnay

Pristine Chardonnays from an up-and-coming California winemaker.

Here’s a California Chardonnay with a distinct personality. John Lockwood and Amy Seese focus on distinct vineyards with unique identity, the majority of them tiny. When it comes to Chardonnay, they’re producing fresh, mineral-driven wines. 

2020’s Old Vine Chardonnay ($53) is bright and briny, with a roundness to the mid-palate and a persistent finish. Classic (old world, not Cali, that is) with wildly age-worthy qualities. For a less expensive option, Enfield’s ‘Citrine’ Chardonnay ($33) is also a delight. Medium-bodied and silky – grown 42-year-old vines in the Sierra Foothills of California. Look for juicy acidity, lemon balm, crisp pear, hazelnuts, a mineral salinity and honeynut finish.

Kate Dingwall is a WSET-trained sommelier and spirits writer. Her work has appeared in Wine Enthusiast, Eater, Forbes.com, and Food & Wine, and she pours wine at one of Canada’s top restaurants.