Barrel Aged Chardonnay
Chaberton Estate Winery
2023 Barrel Aged Chardonnay
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia VQA
Rich, elegant, and beautifully layered, the 2023 Barrel Aged Chardonnay showcases the exceptional quality of Chardonnay grown at Nk’Mip Vineyards in Oliver, British Columbia. Crafted in a classic barrel-fermented style, this wine balances generous fruit character with refined oak integration and a distinctive mineral backbone.
The grapes were destemmed and allowed a brief period of skin contact prior to pressing, enhancing aromatic complexity and texture. Fermentation and aging took place exclusively in oak barrels, with a combination of new and neutral French oak providing depth while preserving varietal character. Following fermentation, the wine underwent full malolactic fermentation, creating a rich, creamy texture that complements its vibrant acidity. Ten months of barrel aging further contributed complexity and elegance.
Awards
- Silver: 2026 SavorNW Wine Awards, Cannon Beach, Oregon
- Silver – 2026 National Wine Awards of Canada, Niagara Falls Ontario
- Bronze: 2026 Decanter World Wine, London, England
- Bronze: 2026 International Wine and Spirits Competition London, England
- Bronze: 2026 All Canadian Wine Championships, Prince Edward County, Ontario
Winemaking
- Appellation: Okanagan Valley BC VQA
- Alcohol: 14.0% alc./vol.
- Residual Sugar: 2.0 g/L
- Acidity: 6.45 g/L
- Skin Contact: Approximately 1 hour prior to pressing
- Fermentation & Aging: 29% new oak barrels, 71% neutral oak barrels for 10 months
- Malolactic Fermentation: Complete following fermentation in barrel
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Brilliant golden straw with rich luminosity.
Nose
Complex aromas of vanilla bean, ripe pineapple, honey, and yellow plum, intertwined with subtle baking spice and toasted oak notes.
Palate
Rich and textured with flavours of toasted brioche, lemon zest, and ripe orchard fruit supported by a pronounced mineral character. The influence of malolactic fermentation contributes a creamy mouthfeel, while vibrant acidity maintains balance and freshness through a long, elegant finish.
Style
Full-bodied, barrel-aged Chardonnay with integrated oak, creamy texture, and vibrant acidity.
Food Pairing Suggestions
An exceptional pairing for rich seafood and classic comfort dishes:
- Lobster with drawn butter
- Seared scallops
- Roast chicken with herbs
- Creamy pasta dishes
- Cedar-planked salmon
- Triple-cream cheeses and aged Gruyère
Serving
- Serve at: 10-12°C
- Enjoy: Now through 2030
Available in 750 mL bottles
Produced and bottled by Chaberton Estate Winery, Langley, British Columbia.
Crafted to express the richness of South Okanagan Chardonnay through thoughtful barrel aging, traditional winemaking, and the distinctive character of Nk’Mip Vineyards.