www.montereycountynow.com MAY 29-JUNE 4, 2025 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 39 CHILL Despite Chardonnay’s ranking as one of the world’s most popular varietals, the wine is not without its detractors. Indeed, people are divided into at least three camps— those who admire the brisk acidity of an unoaked version, fans of the weightier oaked wines and the ones who give up altogether and reach for Sauvignon Blanc. The 2024 “Pancho’s Chard” from Corral Wine Co. spent its time in stainless steel, and it is a refreshing summer glass. Yet first impressions suggest an unexpected richness. Aromas of stewed pineapple, stonefruit and honeycomb lurk under the mellow impression of orange blossom—perhaps the thin and rugged soil of the storied Zabala Vineyard at play, for these are notions one might associate with a little barrel time. But no, it’s all stainless. The crisp pang of green apple greets the palate, with a squirt of fresh citrus. It’s a lean and bright Chardonnay that snaps to the finish, yet leaves a lingering trail of lemon-lime—pleasant on a warm afternoon. Winemaker Adrien Valenzuela is a white wine ace, and for this Chardonnay, he worked quickly and in cool temperatures to preserve its plush bouquet while presenting a sharp, rousing wine. Some winemakers compromise between steel and oak, but Valenzuela found expression in cold steel. Corral’s 2024 Pancho’s Chard is a recent release. And on the sundrenched patio of the winery’s new tasting room home, it is a preferred bottle. Corral Wine Co., 19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. 298-7646, corralwine.com. Steel Drill Corral Wine’s newly released Chardonnay proves the value of a vineyard—and of cold metal. By Dave Faries SEND IDEAS TO: chill@montereycountynow.com DAVE FARIES FOLKTALE WINE CLUB MEMBERS GET TICKET DISCOUNTS www.folktalewinery.com SATURDAY, JUNE 7TH 5:30 - 7:30PM Enjoy sparkling pours and a lavish spread of lobster rolls, caviar blinis, chocolate-covered strawberries, artisan truffles, and more while DJ Sol sets the mood with deep house and lounge beats! The ultimate soirée of the season, unfolding in the stunning Rosé Vineyard at Folktale Winery. This isn’t just an event; it’s the golden hour experience you’ve been dreaming of. Boujee Bubbles THIN CRUST PIZZA SALADS & CALZONES TAKE-OUT TODAY SOURDOUGH PIZZA SEASIDE’S FINEST 720 BROADWAY AVE. SEASIDE PASTA & SUBS BEER ON TAP DESSERTS EAST COAST PIZZAS NY style, thin crust w/ butter & garlic. 14” has 6 slices. 18” has 8 slices. WEST COAST PIZZAS SF sourdough crust w/ garlic olive oil. 14” has 6 slices. 18” has 8 slices. STUFFED CALZONES Made from pizza dough, stuffed w/pizza sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of basil. (Onions upon request). 831-899-1762 DELIVERY AVAILABLE DINE-IN TOO
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