Cuvee Susan Reserve Chardonnay
⏳ wine.drinking_window
Typically best enjoyed 3–10 years from the vintage release.
🍽️ wine.food_pairings
Pan-seared sea scallops, roasted chicken with cream sauce, creamy mushroom risotto
✨ wine.spec_sheet
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.
🍾 wine.about_producer
Founded in 2001 by Napa Valley veteran Tor Kenward and his wife Susan, TOR Kenward Family Wines is a boutique estate dedicated to crafting small-lot, single-vineyard wines that express the singular terroirs of Napa Valley. Drawing on Kenward's nearly three decades of experience at Beringer, the winery sources fruit from legendary sites, most notably the historic Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville. The winemaking philosophy, guided by winemaker Jeff Ames, emphasizes minimal intervention, utilizing native yeast fermentations, and bottling without fining or filtration. TOR is highly celebrated for its powerful, complex Cabernet Sauvignons and expressive Syrahs that showcase the pinnacle of California winemaking. Address: 1507 Main St, St Helena, CA 94574, USA Website: https://torwines.com