Toad Hollow, Francine's Unoaked Chardonnay, Mendocino, California, 2021

Overview of the Wine
Toad Hollow Vineyards began operation in 1994, with 3000 cases of 1993 Russian River Valley Chardonnay. Our Chardonnay is 100% Stainless Steel fermented, using no oak at all. Since then we have added additional wines, a Russian River Merlot (Richard McDowell Vineyard), a Russian River Pinot Noir (Goldies Vines) a Zinfandel from Paso Robles and a Rose of Pinot Noir from Carneros. In 1995 we started to import wines made by our French friends at Sieur D'Arques and now have two sparklings and three still wines in our portfolio. Our mission is to produce quality wines that are interesting at a reasonable price. Our labels are whimsical, supporting another element of our philosophy - we believe drinking wine should be FUN!

Toad Hollow is a collaboration of two old friends who, more or less, retired to an existence of peace and quiet in the Hollow, after a life of whirlwind world travel. Neither of these two gentlemen believed in self-denial, and over the years had probably wined and dined at every major eatery and watering hole in the universe. They began to discuss the fun times they had experienced over many years, remembering all the wonderful people they had met. During their conversation they decided they wanted to find a way to repay the warmth and friendship shown them along the way.

Grape / Blend
Chardonnay

Origin
Mendocino, California

A light lemon color reveals a delicious lemon custard texture and flavor on the palate along with some honeydew melon, fuji apple and baking spice. The finish on our unoaked chardonnay is always creamy and rich, and the 2021 vintage is no exception with its lingering notes of crème brûlée.

90 Points - Wine Enthusiast
This is a fun, yet delicate and elegant, expression of Chardonnay, and a definite bang-for-the-buck. Notes of apple, pear, lemon, lime, chamomile flower and a hint of white grapefruit are kept light and bright by the elevated acidity. The mouthfeel is smooth, almost silky in texture.

90 Points - Ian Blackburn, Wine Judge - LA International Wine Competition

I taste a hundreds of wines to find values we can recommend at all price points.  Chardonnay challenges me at less than $16... they tend to either try too hard and make something out of balance, or not try hard enough and make something uninspired. I think Toad Hallow has done admirable work here;  solid craftsmanship with good complexity.  I'm 90 points and think you will enjoy this creamy, clean and fresh offering.  

Product size: 750ml