The 2022 Stonestreet Estate Chardonnay is a delicious white wine. Along with family members over the holidays, we demolished a bottle and loved every mouthful.
Stonestreet has blended grapes of the finest vineyard sites from their mountain estate to capture the “precision and balance” that define their style. This Alexander Valley, Sonoma County Chardonnay ($55), has gorgeous aromas of citrus blossom and white peach. It comes with “textural richness underscored by the Mayacamas’ hallmark minerality and tension,” say the Stonestreet folks of this fresh-tasting Chard.
Treat yourself to a tasting at Stonestreet along with a pairing of “exquisite small bites.” Or enjoy a private, guided driving tour of the 5,300-acre Stonestreet Mountain Estate, which also includes an “elegant tasting.”
Stonestreet Vineyards & Winery, 7111 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg, 707-473-3333. Stonestreetwines.com
Two Great Sauvignons
2022 La Jota Cabernet Sauvignon – Howell Mountain, Napa Valley ($185). It opens with ripe blackberry, graphite, and a touch of toasted oak. Its powerful structure leads to a long, savory finish.
2022 Jett Cabernet Sauvignon – Walla Walla Valley, Washington State ($80) is simply fabulous. It comes with layers of dark fruit and cranberry – and includes hints of Earl Grey tea, crushed herbs, and toasty pie crust.
Carmel Eateries
When we’re heading to a matinee performance at the Sunset Theater in Carmel, we often stop for lunch at Carmel Belle. It’s a five-minute walk from the theater, and their over-the-counter food is quick and easy. Husband and wife team Chantal and Jeff Nelson are the new owners, and they’re doing a good job! Carmelbelle.com. Another sweet spot for an easy lunch is Café Carmel on Ocean Avenue. British ex-pat owner Sarah Cook is passionate about serving healthy food. And her baked goods are marvelous. Cafecarmel.com
