El Cielo Halley Chardonnay 2023

A bright and aromatic Chardonnay from the Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, showcasing a blend of tropical fruit, citrus, and floral notes with subtle oak influence.

General Information

• Winery/Producer: Vinos El Cielo
• Region: Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico
• Appellation/Region: Valle de Guadalupe
• Grape Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Winemaking Style: El Cielo aims to produce a balanced Chardonnay that expresses the terroir of the Valle de Guadalupe. While specific details on their winemaking vary, it’s typical for Chardonnays in this style to undergo fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness. A portion may be aged in French oak barrels to add complexity and texture. Some sources indicate little to no oak influence, emphasizing the fruit and floral character.
• Alcohol Content: Typically around 13-14% ABV (Alcohol by Volume).

Tasting Notes

• Appearance/Visual: Pale straw to light golden color with greenish hues, indicating youth and freshness. Clear and bright.
• Nose/Aroma: Aromatic and fresh, with an expressive bouquet. Primary aromas include tropical fruits (pineapple, mango, sometimes hints of banana or passionfruit), citrus fruits (lemon, Meyer lemon, lime, grapefruit zest), and white flowers (jasmine, honeysuckle, orange blossom). Secondary aromas may reveal subtle notes of vanilla, toasted oak, honey, and sometimes a slight minerality.
• Palate/Taste: Dry, medium-bodied, with a balanced and refreshing acidity that gives the wine lift. Flavors of tropical and citrus fruits echo the aromas on the nose, complemented by the floral notes and subtle hints of vanilla, toasted oak, and honey. The finish is long and persistent, with a pleasant lingering of fruit, floral, and mineral notes. Some sources describe a smooth or creamy texture.

Food Pairing

This Chardonnay is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes, including:

• Seafood: Ceviche, oysters, clams, grilled white fish, shrimp, grilled scallops, lobster.
• Poultry: Roasted chicken, grilled chicken, roast turkey.
• Salads: Salads with nuts and creamy dressings, salads with grilled vegetables or goat cheese.
• Cheeses: Aged cheeses, semi-hard cheeses, fresh goat cheese.
• Pasta: Pasta with creamy sauces (alfredo, carbonara), pasta with seafood.

Additional Information

• Vinos El Cielo is a well-regarded winery in the Valle de Guadalupe, known for producing quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
• The Valle de Guadalupe is known for its Mediterranean climate, which contributes to the ripeness of the fruit and the balanced acidity in the wines.
• Halley refers to Halley’s Comet, a celestial body that is visible from Earth approximately every 75 years, perhaps symbolizing the cyclical nature of vintages.

Serving Recommendations

Serve chilled, between 8°C and 10°C (46°F and 50°F).

Notes on Alcohol Consumption

Alcoholic beverages should be consumed in moderation. Consumption is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your physician if you have any medical conditions before consuming alcohol.