Clay Creek Vineyards Chardonnay 2022

Winery Background and History

Clay Creek Vineyards is a label under Delicato Family Wines, a family-owned winery established in 1924 by Sicilian immigrant Gaspare Indelicato. Located in Manteca, California, Delicato has grown into one of the top wine companies in the U.S., known for producing quality wines across various price points. The Clay Creek brand focuses on delivering approachable, fruit-forward wines that reflect California’s diverse terroirs.

Producer and Wine Maker

Delicato Family Wines oversees the production of Clay Creek wines, with a team dedicated to sustainable viticulture and innovative winemaking techniques. The winemaking process emphasizes the expression of varietal character and regional attributes, aiming to produce wines that are both accessible and reflective of California’s winegrowing regions.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The 2022 Clay Creek Chardonnay sources grapes from vineyards in Lodi, California. Lodi’s Mediterranean-like climate, characterized by warm days and cool nights, along with its sandy soils, contributes to the development of grapes with intense color and rich, concentrated flavors. These conditions are ideal for cultivating Chardonnay, resulting in wines with depth and complexity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes underwent fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve their fresh fruit character. Post-fermentation, the wine was aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels, imparting subtle notes of vanilla and spice. This approach balances the wine’s vibrant fruit flavors with a touch of oak complexity, resulting in a well-rounded and expressive Chardonnay.

Tasting notes

The 2022 Clay Creek Chardonnay presents a medium-bodied profile with complex structure and balanced acidity. Aromas of peach, ripe pear, vanilla, and toasted hazelnut lead to flavors of honeydew, pineapple, and graham cracker on the palate. The finish is rich and juicy, showcasing the wine’s harmonious blend of fruit and oak characteristics.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chardonnay pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted poultry, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, and charcuterie boards. Its balanced acidity and fruit-forward profile complement both savory and earthy flavors, making it versatile for pairing with meats, cheeses, and vegetarian dishes alike.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of this Chardonnay, serve it chilled at a temperature between 10–12°C (50–54°F). Use white wine glasses with a slightly wider bowl to allow the aromas to develop. No decanting is necessary. Proper serving enhances the wine’s complexity, allowing its layers of fruit, oak, and acidity to shine through with elegance and balance.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2022 Clay Creek Chardonnay is crafted for immediate enjoyment but also possesses the structure to age gracefully over the next 2–3 years. Stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent temperature and humidity—the wine will maintain its freshness and may develop additional complexity, showcasing subtle tertiary notes.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

• 100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%