The grapes for this Chardonnay hail from the centrally located Mt. Carmel Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Upon delivery at our winery in the early morning, the grapes were gently pressed, and the resulting juice was then transferred to a mixture of new and older French oak barrels. In barrel, the lees were stirred for four months, and the wine underwent full malolactic fermentation. Our Mt. Carmel Chardonnay was aged ten months in barrel before being released in Early Winter 2023.

Sta. Rita Hills has fast become a recognized region for growing exception Burgundian varietals, and our Mt. Carmel Vineyard Chardonnay is a classic example of the ultra-premium quality that this area can produce. This delicate Chardonnay opens with a bouquet of lively aromas reminiscent of lemon curd, dried apricot and lemon blossom, while bright acidity and a smooth finish follow through on the palate.

90 - Wine Enthusiast