2022 Michael Shaps Wild Meadow Chardonnay ($28)

Nestled in the woods just south of Charlottesville, Michael Shaps Winery blends Old World tradition with Virginia terroir. Founded in 2007 by acclaimed winemaker Michael Shaps, the winery is known for producing small-batch, age-worthy wines.

Produced in the Burgundian style, this 100% Chardonnay is whole-cluster pressed and fermented in oak barrels (50% new) with ambient (wild) yeast. This resulted in a prolonged fermentation and full malolactic conversion. It was then followed by 15 months of aging on primary lees.

This Michael Shaps Wild Meadow Chardonnay is medium gold in color with a very delicate aroma of pear. On the palate, this Chardonnay is fresh and bright. Its rather high acidity of 6.15 g/L is somewhat offset by the oak aging, having undergone full Malolactic conversion and the reported 0% residual sugar. These factors yield a Burgundy-like Chardonnay, that is fresh and bright. [ABV: 13%, TA: 6.15 g/L, pH: 3.2, RS: 0%]

This is yet another winner and, at this price, a perfect fit as the Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review.

Media Sample Provided by Michael Shaps Winery, Virginia Wine and Donna White Communications