Catena White Stone Chardonnay

White Stone Chardonnay is a Massachusetts wine from Catena, and the details we have for it are limited to that. The notes below describe what Chardonnay of this type usually offers, not a measured profile of this bottle. Expect a dry white with orchard and citrus fruit, such as green apple, pear, and lemon, and possibly a softer stone-fruit note if the fruit ripened well. Cooler-climate New England Chardonnay generally has medium body and fresh, bright acidity. If this bottle saw oak, expect a little vanilla, toast, or butter. Without oak, it should taste cleaner and more mineral. Tannin is negligible in white wine, so the structure comes from acidity and the weight of the fruit. The finish is usually medium in length and crisp. At the table, a Chardonnay with this kind of acidity suits roast chicken with herbs, pan-seared scallops, lobster or crab with drawn butter, and creamy pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or a carbonara. Its acidity cuts through rich sauces, and its moderate weight won't overpower delicate seafood. Soft cheeses such as brie or young Gruyère are a good match, as are sweet corn, squash, and mushroom dishes. Very spicy food and heavily smoked meats are better paired with something else. Serve it cool but not ice-cold. Around 8 to 12°C (46 to 54°F) is a good range, which is about two hours in the refrigerator or thirty minutes in an ice bath. Straight from a very cold fridge, the fruit tends to stay muted. Decanting isn't needed for a wine in this style, though if it tastes tight when first opened, letting it sit in the glass for ten minutes or so will help it open up. A standard white wine glass with a moderately wide bowl and a slight taper lets the aromas gather without exaggerating alcohol or oak. Most Chardonnay at this level is made to be opened within a few years of release, and there's no indication here that this bottle is intended for long cellaring. Plan to drink it soon, and store it on its side or upright in a cool, dark place away from heat. Once opened, re-cork it and keep it in the refrigerator, where it should hold its character for two to three days.