MATCHBOOK DUNNIGAN HILLS OLD HEAD CHARDONNAY 2021

Matchbook Old Head Chardonnay is a full-bodied, rich, creamy and oaky wine in the traditional Californian style – lovers of bigger style Chardonnay will enjoy this immensely. The wine is 100% grown, produced and bottled on site at the Matchbook vineyard / winery in Dunnigan Hills and the entire business is family owned and operated – there is a great story to tell.

Winery notes (2021 Vintage)
"The 2021 vintage of Matchbook Chardonnay blends the six clones grown in the Matchbook estate vineyards. The diversity of clones grown on various vineyard sites contributes layers of complex flavors. The color is classic California golden straw. The flavors are dominated by the tropical notes that have become a signature of their Dunnigan Hills Chardonnay: pineapple, mango, and melon. 60% malolactic fermentation adds a creamy texture and a touch of butterscotch; oak aging adds the note of vanilla. The dash of Verdejo brightens the wine with a lift of minerality. This delicious Chardonnay has a satisfyingly plump mouthfeel balanced by the crisp, fresh fruit that lingers in the finish."

5 Stars & 93/100 Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, July 2024 (2021 Vintage)
"It's immediately appealing on the nose, showing pineapple, mango, roasted hazelnut and subtle butterscotch aromas. The palate delivers creamy texture and fleshy mouthfeel, wonderfully supported by beautifully pitched acidity, finishing delicious and lingering. At its best: now to 2027."

91/100 Cameron Douglas MS, April 2024 (2021 Vintage)
"A complete bouquet and expression of Chardonnay that is both familiar and inviting. Aromas and flavours of golden apple and grapefruit, citrus and white peach. As the wine begins to open out in glass the flavours and textures from oak rise with a Brazil-nut and vanilla cream quality. Near full-bodied in weight with balanced use of acidity and warming alcohol for texture and length. Well made, quite classic, very easy to drink and super food friendly. Best from day of purchase through 2029."

Reviews for previous vintages below…

5 Stars & 18.5/20 (93) Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Reviews, May 2021 (2019 Vintage)
"Bright, medium yellow, even colour throughout. The nose is open and gentle, nuances of pineapple, peach interweaves burnt butter, spiced nuts and creamy custard. Full-bodied, the flavours are complexed, pineapple, stonefruit have a good core, melded with custard, burnt butter and pastry, followed by toffee caramel, candied hazelnuts, and spices linger. The range of flavours integrated harmoniously, nutty oak and butter added richness. The creamy and full palate balanced by brilliant acidity left a lengthy, fulsome finish. Match with peanut butter chicken and hazelnut-crusted pork over the next 3-4 years. Estate grown fruit on Dunnigan Hills, 97% Chardonnay, 3% Verdejo, fermented in 75% barrel, 25% stainless steel to 13.9% alc. A combination of French, American & European oak (22% new oak), 60% MLF"