For Koerner and Joan Rombauer, it was all about sharing joyful moments when they established Rombauer Vineyards in 1980. With a deep appreciation for food and wine, the couple moved their family to Napa Valley, introducing their first Chardonnay in 1984. In 1990, they crafted their first Carneros Chardonnay, showcasing the unique terroir where San Pablo Bay meets Napa and Sonoma Valleys, alongside their exceptional winemaking expertise.
Today, this icon of Californian Chardonnay is part of the luxury portfolio of E. & J. Gallo Winery, bringing Rombauer’s heritage and quality to wine lovers worldwide.
The Epitome of Californian Chardonnay
Rombauer's wine selection in Singapore includes Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Prorprietor Selection, Merlot, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon. [Photo: Andrina Loo]
Rombauer’s Chardonnay has earned numerous accolades over the years, including a spot on Wine & Spirits Magazine’s “Top 10 Chardonnays” and Wine Spectator’s “Top 10 Most Wanted Chardonnays Beyond France.”
On top of its distinctive terroir, the grapes are hand-harvested at night to preserve freshness and acidity. The combination of barrel fermentation and malolactic fermentation lends the Carneros Chardonnay 2023 its signature creamy, velvety mouthfeel, led by bright peach aromatics. A long, buttery finish with hints of vanilla oak makes it a perfect pairing for white fish, crab cakes, barley risotto, and strawberry shortcake – recipes for which are available on Rombauer’s website.
For the ultimate expression of Rombauer’s Chardonnay, the Proprietor Selection Chardonnay 2023 showcases the finest hand-selected Carneros fruit. It opens with aromas of nectarine, peach, and honeysuckle, while candied ginger and chamomile notes add complexity to the palate. Even Head Winemaker Richie Allen calls it one of the best Chardonnays of his 21-year career.
Reviving the Classic Zinfandel
Head Winemaker Richie Allen calls Rombauer’s Proprietor Selection Chardonnay 2023 one of the finest blends of his 21-year career. [Photo: Rombauer Vineyards]
While Rombauer produces an elegant Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 and a rich Napa Valley Merlot 2022, its most popular red wine is the bold and fruit-driven California Zinfandel 2021.
Zinfandel, known as Tribidrag or Crljenak Kaštelanski in its native Croatia, was introduced to the United States in the 19th century, likely via Austria or Italy. Often called “America’s Heritage Grape,” Zinfandel has seen fluctuating popularity, with its reputation affected by the rise of White Zinfandel in the 1980s and evolving consumer preferences favouring lighter, fresher wine styles.
At Rombauer Vineyards, the Zinfandel story takes a different turn.
President and CEO Bob Knebel notes that for Rombauer, Zinfandel remains a growing market within a declining category, and the reason lies in its premium vineyard sources and expert craftsmanship. Rombauer sources grapes from some of California’s oldest and most revered wine regions like Amador County, El Dorado County, Lake County, and Napa County, with some vines over 100 years old.
Their meticulous winemaking process which includes optical sorting, cold soaking, controlled fermentation, and basket pressing, enhances the wine’s bold character. Each sip bursts with black fruits and pomegranate, complemented by hints of dried orange peel and clove. Its balanced acidity and fine tannins create a rich, lingering velvety finish, making it an ideal match for burgers, meatballs, ribs, chocolate cake, and berry pies.
As Rombauer Vineyards expands beyond the U.S., wine lovers worldwide can now experience the iconic Carneros Chardonnay, bold California Zinfandel, and more, available through Malt & Wine Asia.
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