Truett-Hurst's reputation for quality and their focus on showcasing Sonoma County terroir shines in their 2014 Swallowtail Chardonnay. This wine offers a glimpse into both the history of California Chardonnay and the unique character of Dry Creek Valley.

Truett-Hurst: Dry Creek Valley Pioneers

Truett-Hurst Winery has roots in Dry Creek Valley dating back to the early 1900s. Now under the guidance of Phil Hurst and Virginia Lambrix, they champion sustainably farmed vineyards and produce terroir-driven, balanced wines.

Swallowtail: A Focus on Chardonnay

The Swallowtail label highlights Truett-Hurst's best Chardonnay lots each year. The grapes are meticulously sourced from vineyards throughout Dry Creek Valley, showcasing the diverse expressions within the appellation.

Dry Creek Valley Chardonnay

Dry Creek Valley, north of Napa, is renowned for its warm days and cool nights. This diurnal shift allows Chardonnay to develop ripe fruit flavours while retaining vibrant acidity, an ideal balance for complex wines.

The 2014 Vintage: A Classic California Year

2014 was a textbook vintage for many California wine regions, including Dry Creek Valley. Warm, consistent weather led to fully ripened grapes without excessive heat, resulting in wines with concentration and balance.

Tasting Notes: 2014 Swallowtail Chardonnay

• Appearance: Medium to deep straw yellow.

• Aroma: Expect a mix of ripe pear, yellow apple, touches of tropical fruit, and hints of vanilla and baking spice from oak influence.

• Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a creamy texture. Flavours echo the aromatics, with a refreshing backbone of acidity.

• Finish: Lingering with notes of stone fruit, spice, and a subtle minerality.

Food Pairings

The 2014 Swallowtail is versatile at the table:

• Roasted Chicken: A classic pairing, the acidity complements the rich flavours.

• Creamy Seafood Dishes: Perfect with scallops in a butter sauce or crab cakes.

• Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto: The wine's richness matches the dish.

Cellaring Potential

While ready to enjoy now, the 2014 Swallowtail has the potential to age gracefully for a few years. Expect oak-derived notes to soften, and additional complexity to develop.

Where to Find It

Older vintages from specific producers can be a challenge to find. Here's where to look:

• Online Wine Auctions: Platforms specializing in older vintages might list it.

• Specialty Wine Shops: Shops focusing on Californian wines might have a bottle or two.

• Direct from the Winery: Truett-Hurst occasionally releases library wines – inquire directly.

A Piece of Dry Creek Valley

The 2014 Truett-Hurst Swallowtail Chardonnay offers a snapshot of this historic region's ability to produce world-class Chardonnay. If you enjoy this bottle, be sure to explore other Dry Creek Valley producers known for their Chardonnay.