From Wineenthusiast · · 1m 50s
Chalk Hill Wins 2026 American Winery of the Year
Chalk Hill Estate, a Sonoma County winery, claimed the 2026 American Winery of the Year award for its mastery of California Chardonnay.
In brief
Chalk Hill Estate, a Sonoma County winery, claimed the 2026 American Winery of the Year award for its mastery of California Chardonnay. Chalk Hill Estate won the 2026 American Winery of the Year award for elevating California Chardonnay through sustainable practices and consistent winemaking. Originally reported by…
Chalk Hill Wins 2026 Award
Chalk Hill Estate was named the 2026 American Winery of the Year for its impact on California Chardonnay.
Fred Furth's Legacy
Fred Furth founded Chalk Hill in 1970, creating a 1,300-acre Sonoma County estate that became synonymous with California Chardonnay.
Chalk Hill Appellation
The Chalk Hill appellation features cool, ash-rich soils that allow Chardonnay to ripen slowly for structured wines.
Bill Foley's Acquisition
Bill Foley acquired Chalk Hill from Fred Furth in 2010, recognizing its potential for distinctive Chardonnay.
Courtney Foley's Vision
Courtney Foley emphasizes the ecological balance of Chalk Hill, maintaining less than a third of the land planted to vine.
Sustainable Practices
Chalk Hill Estate is certified sustainable, supporting diverse wildlife from insects to apex predators.
Winemaking Traditions
Chalk Hill continues native fermentation and sur lie aging with weekly stirring since David Ramey's era.
Winemaker Expertise
Winemaker Darrell Holbrook has worked at Chalk Hill since the 1990s, understanding vineyard nuances intimately.
Chardonnay Focus
Chalk Hill specializes in Chardonnay, offering a range of styles from fresh to opulent for Chard lovers.
Red Wine Offerings
Chalk Hill produces a smaller selection of red wines that perform well in Sonoma's climate.
Award Significance
Chalk Hill is recognized as ground zero for California Chardonnay, a key industry milestone.
Wine Star Awards
Chalk Hill won the 2026 American Winery of the Year award, highlighting its role in California Chardonnay.
What matters most
Chalk Hill Estate won the 2026 American Winery of the Year award for elevating California Chardonnay through sustainable practices and consistent winemaking.
