2024
Charles Ranch Vineyard
Chardonnay
This hillside site in rugged Fort Ross-Seaview sits at 1,200 feet in elevation, only a couple of miles inland from the Pacific Ocean and just up the road from Sea Field. Planted over 40 years ago, these vines represent some of the oldest Chardonnay plantings on the coast.
Aromas of white flowers, lemon pith, and just-ripe white summer peach rise from the glass, carried by the imprint of wet grey rock, fragrant honeysuckle, and a subtle touch of lightly baked brioche. The palate unfolds with notes of barely ripe nectarine, citrus blossom, and minerality, capturing both the raw power and elegance of this windswept site. With a round and textural palate, the wine's depth, length, and precision ends with racy, crystalline finish.
Whole cluster pressed • natively fermented in barrel • bottled without fining
99 points James Suckling, 97 points Vinous