Elevated Surface and Cavalière Claire are small-lot wines handcrafted by Kelter Wines, founded in 2017 by vintner Stefan Daniels in memory of his daughter, Claire Daniels. With over 40 years of experience in the wine industry—including time spent working in both California and Europe—Stefan brings a global perspective to vine growing and winemaking, rooted in a deep respect for tradition and terroir.
Kelter Wines is built on a simple but profound belief: that the purest wines are those that speak clearly of their origin. With a focus on nonmalolactic Chardonnay and the ancient, old-world variety Saint Laurent, both grown in Sonoma County, our wines are fresh, vibrant, and unmistakably site-driven. They honor old-world structure and balance while celebrating the clarity and sunlight of California.
These wines are not just made—they are crafted with intention, capturing the vineyard’s voice and the vintner’s heart. At Kelter Wines, we are simply harnessing California sunshine to bottle purity, character, and soul.
In honor of Claire, Kelter Wines donates $1.00 per bottle to the Delta Gamma Claire Daniels Memorial “Sisters Helping Sisters” Scholarship, helping students reach elevated levels in their academic journeys.
Contact
Stefan Daniels
📞 415-309-3930
✉ stefan@kelterwines.com
🌐 www.kelterwines.com
Kelter Wines
2023 Chardonnay
Ricci Vineyard, Los Carneros, Sonoma
Vintage Summary
The 2023 vintage in Northern California was exceptional for Chardonnay. A long, cool spring extended the growing season, fostering optimal flavor development at moderate sugar levels. As summer brought warm days and cool nights, acidity was preserved, and fruit character intensified, resulting in bright, balanced wines with great aging potential.
Tasting Notes
This Chardonnay offers fresh, vibrant flavors of citrus, green apple, and pear, accented by notes of honeysuckle and a clean mineral edge. Its bright acidity and low oak influence emphasize purity, energy, and elegance.
Winemaking
- 100% Chardonnay
- No malolactic fermentation
- Aged in French oak and stainless steel barrels
- No new oak
- Minimal intervention to preserve vineyard character
Technical Specs
Alcohol: 13.1%
TA: 6.5 g/L
pH: 3.5
Production & Philosophy
Produced in small lots with a focus on pure varietal character and freshness, this wine reflects the cool Carneros terroir and the elegant winemaking style of Kelter Wines.
Contact
Stefan Daniels
📞 415-309-3930
✉ stefan@kelterwines.com
🌐 www.kelterwines.com
Kelter Wines
2022 Saint Laurent
Ricci Vineyard, Los Carneros, Sonoma County
Vintage Summary
The 2022 growing season in Northern California brought a mild spring and a warm, dry summer—ideal for developing deep color, aromatic intensity, and balanced acidity in early-ripening varieties like Saint Laurent. Harvest timing allowed for full phenolic maturity without excessive sugar, resulting in elegant, age-worthy wines.
Tasting Notes
This wine opens with aromas of Morello cherries, red plum, and subtle spices such as black pepper and clove. The palate is fresh and refined, with bright acidity, soft tannins, and a savory mineral edge. Ideal with roasted vegetables, poultry, or enjoyed on its own.
Winemaking
- 1/3 Whole Cluster Fermentation
- 2/3 Whole Berries
- Aged in neutral French oak barrels
- Minimal intervention to preserve varietal and vineyard character
Technical Specs
Alcohol: 12.5%
TA: 6.3 g/L
pH: 3.64
Production & Philosophy
Crafted in small lots with a focus on pure varietal character and freshness, this wine reflects the cool Carneros terroir and the elegant winemaking style of Kelter Wines.
Contact
Stefan Daniels
📞 415-309-3930
✉ stefan@kelterwines.com
🌐 www.kelterwines.com