2022 Melville Estate Chardonnay [WA96][JD94][WE91]

"The 2021 Chardonnay Estate is scented of white peaches and quince with savory undertones of salted almonds, meringue and lemon peel. Medium-bodied, concentrated and expansive, it offers slowly unfurling savory layers, refreshing acidity and a long finish driven by a pleasing touch of anchoring texture. This is juicy and appealing yet layered and intense! Best After 2022." 

"While just bottled eight days before this tasting, the 2021 Chardonnay Estate wasn’t showing any worse for wear and has a rounded, layered, medium-bodied style as well as beautiful honeyed minerality, some classic Sta. Rita Hills salty citrus-like fruit, terrific balance, and a great finish. It’s a gem of a cool-climate Chardonnay from Melville that readers will love. It should represent a great value as well." 

"Soft melon and pineapple aromas are lifted by white flower on the nose of this wine. The palate is broad and generous in flavor, offering clean lines of lychee, lime and more pineapple." 

Winemaker Notes: 

"On the nose you instantly get a gust of ocean breeze as if standing in front of a wave crashing on the shore. The scent of shallow ocean gives way to crushed chalk followed by lime, under-ripe pineapple, and honeysuckle. The palate electrifies with citrus notes of kumquats and lime. The signature Sta. Rita Hills sunshine takes stage in the glass in the form of vibrant pineapple and golden kiwi. The 2021 Estate Chardonnay’s freshness begs for food but does great with just good conversation."