Castillo de Monjardín Chardonnay Barrica Selección 2024

Bodegas Castillo de Monjardín farms 220 hectares in central Navarra, at the foot of the Pyrenees, where French influence has long shaped the choice of grapes and this cool, well-ventilated area suits Chardonnay. Cool nights and a long ripening season preserve acidity and give the fruit a fresh citrus profile before the cellar work adds weight. This selection is fermented and aged six months in French oak barrels, which contributes vanilla, toast and woodspice, while barrel fermentation binds the oak more tightly to the fruit. Lees contact during ageing builds a creamy texture and rounds the palate, and a partial malolactic softening tempers the natural acidity. It shows bright gold, with a nose of ripe lemon and apple, white peach, vanilla and a subtle toasted note. The palate is medium bodied and creamy, with citrus and stone fruit framed by gentle oak spice, carrying a fresh, balanced finish. This is a restrained, food friendly take on barrel aged Chardonnay. Serve at 11 to 12 degrees in a large white glass. Good with roast chicken, creamy pasta and hard cheeses.