2021 Chardonnay, Monterey

91 PTS, Wine Enthusiast
"Soft aromas of sea salt, baked apple, lemon and hazelnut make for a classic nose on this bottling. There's a slow-rising acidity on the palate, where honeysuckle, baked pear and toasted-pastry flavors align." - MK

89 PTS, James Suckling
Notes of baked apples and candied lemons with hints of toffee and honey. Full-bodied and creamy with some sweet, mellow ripeness in the middle and a weighty finish. Drink now.

On the palate this wine exhibits subtle creamy custard aromas and backed with lemon verbena and clove. The palate is juicy with ripe mango and is wrapped in creamy Tahitian vanilla. The acidity shines through the creamy texture demonstrating the optimal acidity that cool climate Monterey grapes possess. 

This wine was made from grapes grown at the Arroyo Loma Vineyard in King City within Monterey by famed Central Coast grower Steve McIntyre. The vineyard is sustainable and farmed organically, but not certified. The grapes were picked cool at night, whole cluster pressed and barrel fermented on the natural lees and put through 100% malo-lactic. It was aged in barrel and stirred over 9 months.

Tasting Notes: On the palate this wine exhibits subtle creamy custard aromas and backed with lemon verbena and clove. The palate is juicy with ripe mango and is wrapped in creamy Tahitian vanilla. The acidity shines through the creamy texture demonstrating the optimal acidity that cool climate Monterey grapes possess. The finish is supple upon entry with guava, passionfruit and silky, creamy vanilla which finishes with baked apple and crème brûlée custard flavors. The finish is long with silky elegance and lingering acidity.

Food Pairings: While this makes a wonderful cocktail wine or aperitif, it is a natural with grilled King Salmon with dill compound butter, steamed English peas with fresh mint and roasted garlic potatoes. This wine is terrific with Lobster or Dungeness Crab or crab cakes. Try it with truffle popcorn or salty pretzels when you are feeling it.

2015
88 PTS, Tasting Panel, March 2017
“Smooth, ripe and juicy with smooth vanilla oak;
mellow and balanced with ripe pear fruit and a
mellow finish; long and creamy.”

2015
87 PTS, Wine Enthusiast, May 2017
“Dried apple and pear aromas meet with touches of oak, macadamia nut and wet cement on the nose of this bottling. Similar dried apple and pear flavors show on the palate, which is lifted by citrus pith and a touch of smoke on the finish."