Substance Chardonnay Columbia Valley 2021 750ml

Substance is part of House of Smith, Charles Smith's Washington wine company, and Brennon Leighton is the winemaker. The Chardonnay carries the Columbia Valley appellation.

Critics report that the 2021 was barrel-fermented with native yeasts and spent ten to twelve months on its lees, with 20% new French oak. More than half a million bottles were made. It's 14% alcohol.

The winery describes orange blossom, fragrant melon, lemon peel and graham cracker, with a lively, refined palate. For this vintage the winemaker adds tangerine, Meyer lemon curd and a kiss of butterscotch.

Against Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve, Substance has more texture from the native yeasts and lees aging; for a barrel-fermented Chardonnay at a value price, choose Substance.

Washington's Columbia Valley is warm and dry in summer with cool nights, which gives ripe fruit with fresh acidity.

Serve it lightly chilled with roast chicken, pork chops, salmon or a mushroom risotto.

Find more 90+ point wines under $20 and our Chardonnay. Pick it up at our Brooklyn store or get same-day delivery in Brooklyn, Manhattan & Queens.