I will be honest here. I am not a big fan of Chardonnay and will usually opt for ABC (Anything BUT Chardonnay) when given the chance. This wine changed all of that. In a word – GORGEOUS.
LVE is John Legend’s label, Legend Vinyard Exclusive, in partnership with Raymond Vineyards where they have created a dozen or so vintages. While I fully intend to work my way through the list, they made magic on this one. Even the label on this Chardonnay is beauty. It shouldn’t be a surprise given everything John Legend touches turns to gold. Even the label on this wine is beauty. Creamy white roses and brushed gold with unassuming, yet elegant lettering. Beauty. I shouldn’t be surprised given everything John Legend touches turns to gold.
The nose on the 2021 LVE Chardonnay evokes creamy white flowers, ripe melon and fresh pears with perhaps a whisper of baking spices in the background. On the tongue you get buttery warm brioche and spiced pears that feels like velvet and lingers in a long, luxurious finish.
Don’t confuse this with John Legend Signature Series by LVE Chardonnay. If the difference in the labels aren’t enough of a clue, the price difference will be. Don’t be fooled by online vendors that show the rose label at a $16-ish price tag. You’re not going to get this bottle. Your going to get this one…
Don’t get me wrong, this is a lovely Chardonnay if you are a Chardonnay fan. It’s also a great value as well but it is NOT what I am talking about here. The LVE Chardonnay Carneros is what I am talking about and well worth the investment. If you see it for less than $45 retail, it’s not the Carneros.
Slàinte!
| Flavor Profile: | |
| Sweetness Acidity Alcohol Body Flavor intensity Flavor characteristics Aroma |
Dry Low 14.5% Full Medium Spiced Pear, Lemon Zest, Crème Brûlée Pear, Jasmine, Fresh Melon |
Disclosure…
Yes, I am an Independent Boisset Collection Ambassador.
Yes, Jean-Charles Boisset is the Proprietor of Raymond Vineyards.
No, I will never recommend something I don’t love just to make a buck.
Yes, if you are one of my Wine Society Members you get a significant discount on Boisset Collection wines, but:
- You would have to register as my client.
- You would need to enroll in the Boisset Wine Society. OR
- Become a JCB Collector.
I personally am a Wine Society Member because it’s fabulous and fully customizable. You can select as few as 3 bottles of wine every three months. Or you can do 6 or 12 bottles every three months. Your choice all the way around. A bottle of wine a month? All within your style and your budget. As I said, fabulous! Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or you want to get started today!
