La Crema, California Recipe

Time30m

Serves4

Make La Crema, California Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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1
Chill and open
Chill the bottle of La Crema Chardonnay to 48–52°F (9–11°C). If it's in the refrigerator, remove 20–30 minutes before serving to come into the ideal temperature range. If it's at room temperature, place in an ice bucket filled halfway with ice and water for 10–12 minutes.
2
Decant (optional)
If the bottle is older (5+ years) or you want the wine to open up quickly, decant the Chardonnay for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow aromas to develop. For younger wines, simply pour directly.
3
Pour
Hold the bottle at the base, and pour 4–6 oz (about 120–180 ml) of Chardonnay into a clean, tulip-shaped white-wine glass. Fill to about one-third of the glass to allow room for swirling and aroma concentration. Repeat for each guest.
4
Aromatics and taste check
Swirl the glass gently 1–2 times and inhale to note aromas: citrus (lemon), green apple, pear, oak, vanilla, and maybe light butter/cream. Take a small sip and note balance of fruit, acidity, oak, and any buttery or creamy textures typical of a La Crema California Chardonnay.

5
Prepare simple garnishes and pairings to complement the Chardonnay. Place 1 lemon slice on the rim of each guest’s glass or serve them on a small plate so guests may briefly scent or wipe the rim with lemon if desired. Add a thyme sprig alongside the glass to provide a fresh herbal aroma when guests bring the glass to their nose.
6
Season the wine lightly if you want a contrasting flavor note: freshly crack a small pinch of black pepper into a small ramekin for guests to touch to the rim of their glass (optional and uncommon — use sparingly).
7
Warm the sourdough slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until lightly crisp. Serve with 1/2 tablespoon of soft butter on each slice for guests to spread. The bread and butter accentuate the Chardonnay’s creamy, toasty notes.
8
When clearing glasses, keep the bottle upright to preserve remaining wine and reseal with the original cork or a wine stopper. Refrigerate any opened bottle and consume within 3–4 days for best quality.