Understanding Chardonnay — Steel vs. Oak

Why do some chardonnays taste crisp and citrusy while others are rich and buttery? It's the winemaking, not just the vineyard. At Keller Estate, we make both styles because chardonnay is versatile enough to deserve multiple expressions.

The Stainless Steel Approach: Oro de Plata

Oro de Plata Chardonnay is fermented entirely in stainless steel, showcasing the grape in its purest form. Neutral vessels add no flavor, and we skip malolactic fermentation to preserve natural acidity and keep the wine bright and energetic.

The result is clarity: citrus, white flowers, stone fruit, green apple, and mineral notes with a crisp, clean finish. The aromatics of the Wente clone shine without oak interference.

Oro de Plata has been part of our portfolio since 2003—back when skipping oak was considered radical. The intention was simple: let the vineyard speak without interruption.

The Oak Approach: La Cruz Vineyard

La Cruz Vineyard Chardonnay takes the opposite path. Fermented in French oak barrels—both new and aged—it delivers a richer, more textured expression of the same grape.

Fermentation in oak introduces subtle wood influence. Full malolactic fermentation creates a creamy texture, and extended battonage during aging adds body and depth. Gentle oxygen exchange over time builds complexity.

In the glass, expect baked apple, vanilla, butter, toast, and hazelnut. A rounder texture, fuller body, and a wine that evolves beautifully with age. This is classic Burgundian-style winemaking—where oak and time shape layers of complexity.

Why We Make Both

Chardonnay’s beauty lies in its versatility. Some evenings call for clarity and brightness. Others call for depth and comfort. We see no reason to limit the grape to a single interpretation when it performs brilliantly in both.

Oro de Plata celebrates what stainless steel can do—preserve, clarify, and amplify pure fruit character. La Cruz Vineyard celebrates what oak and time can do—soften, enrich, and add complexity.

Both are chardonnay. Both are from our estate. Both are crafted with equal care and precision. The difference is intention.

The Technical Details

• Oro de Plata: 100% stainless steel fermentation, no malolactic fermentation, preserved natural acidity, minimal oxygen exposure, predominantly Wente clone.
• La Cruz Vineyard: Fermented in French oak (new and aged barrels), full malolactic fermentation, extended aging with battonage, gentle oxygen exchange, complexity that develops over time.

Finding Your Style

If you love bright, linear wines that feel alive on your palate, Oro de Plata is calling.

If you prefer wines with texture, weight, and the ability to evolve in the glass, La Cruz Vineyard is your answer.

Two chardonnays. Two philosophies. One estate.

Explore the full spectrum of what chardonnay can be.