ZD Wines were founded in 1969 by Norman and Rosa Lee deLeuze. The winery was built in 1979 along the Silverado Trail within the Rutherford AVA. Today, it is being managed by third generation family members. Winemaking is under the guidance of Robert deLeuze. The family purchased 15 acres of Chardonnay and 14 acres of Pinot Noir in Carneros. Their Rutherford and Carneros vineyards have been certified organic since 1999.

The grapes for this Chardonnay were sourced from Napa, Sonoma, Carneros, Monterey, and Santa Barbara. It is 100% barrel fermented and aged for 10 months in American Oak. This Chardonnay was one of the standouts at the annual Heritage Gala. The medium yellow hue opens with a bouquet of fresh picked orchard apples. There is a framework of star fruits, honeysuckle and lemon marmalade that are concentrated and nicely compacted together. There are hints of finely chiseled chalk and delicate acidity that does not distract from the fruit as this wine glides effortlessly to a lengthy finish.

By W Peter Hoyne