Cuvee Susan Reserve Chardonnay
⏳ Drinking Window
2023 - 2030
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Pan-seared sea scallops, roasted chicken with cream sauce, creamy mushroom risotto
✨ Technical Specifications
Named in honor of Tor Kenward's wife and partner, Susan, the Cuvée Susan Reserve Chardonnay represents the absolute pinnacle of TOR's white winemaking. This cuvée is a meticulous barrel selection, typically sourced from legendary cool-climate vineyards in the Carneros region, such as the historic Hyde Vineyard and Beresini Vineyard. Crafted by winemaker Jeff Ames using traditional Burgundian techniques, the wine undergoes native yeast fermentation and full malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels, accompanied by regular lees stirring (bâtonnage). The result is an incredibly complex, texturally rich Chardonnay that beautifully balances opulent California fruit with vibrant, structural acidity and a mineral-driven finish. It stands as a testament to the family's dedication to world-class Napa Valley Chardonnay.
🍾 About the Producer
Founded in 2001 by Napa Valley veteran Tor Kenward and his wife Susan, TOR Wines is an artisanal producer located in St. Helena, California. Drawing upon Kenward's nearly three decades of executive experience alongside legendary growers and winemakers at Beringer Vineyards, the estate is dedicated to crafting small-production, vineyard-designated wines from premier sites throughout Napa Valley. TOR focuses primarily on historic grand cru-caliber terroirs, most notably Beckstoffer To Kalon, Beckstoffer Dr. Crane, and Cimarossa Vineyard. Employing a minimalist, site-expressive winemaking philosophy, the winery is internationally celebrated for its powerful, cellar-worthy Cabernet Sauvignons, refined Chardonnays, and rare, expressive Syrahs.
🍇 Grape Varieties
Chardonnay