2015 Double L Chardonnay 1.5L
The Double L Vineyard is well situated to produce Chardonnay of the highest caliber. Located near the northern tip of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, the vineyard receives brisk afternoon breezes from nearby Monterey Bay. North-south vineyard row orientation allows for optimum sun exposure on the Highlands’ east - facing terraces. Wind and sun combine for a long, cool growing season, resulting in vibrant fruit flavors with balanced acidity. The vineyard was certified organic in 2002, although it has been conscientiously farmed in this method since the original plantings in 1997.
The 2015 growing season saw a continuation of California's long drought. The lower than normal rainfall totals and dry winter led to early budbreak. Throughout the Highlands, 2015 yields were down but fruit quality was very high.
Creme brulee, asian pear, hazelnut, and Nilla wafer aromas are backed by sweet spice of lightly toasted oak. Pineapple, vanilla and lemon curd flavors are complemented by a touch of creaminess and elegant, bright acidity. One of the finest food wines, the Double L Chardonnay will pair wonderfully with seafood and poultry dishes, as well as a buttery steak.
Wine Specs
94 Points
"The 2015 Chardonnay Double L Vineyard is a big step up and is sensational stuff! White flowers, orchard fruits, caramelized peach, toasted bread and hints of minerality all emerge from this beauty and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness and depth, yet just glides across the palate. Layered, multi-dimensional and beautifully pure, drink it anytime over the coming 4-6 years." - Jeb Dunnuck, October 2017
93 Points
"This excellent, restrained bottling is compelling. Lemongrass, kaffir lime and lemon-lime aromas lead into a palate laced with fresh, high-toned citrus notes. More exotic touches of sweet onion, yuzu and wet slate complete the experience." - Matt Kettmann, August 2017
92 Points
"(30% new French oak) Green-tinged gold. Expansive, mineral-accented aromas of ripe tangerine, pear nectar and white flowers carry subtle ginger and vanilla overtones. Seamless and energetic in the mouth, offering intense orchard and citrus fruit flavors complicated by a refreshingly bitter quinine nuance and a hint of smoky lees. Finishes with excellent clarity and mineral thrust, leaving floral and citrus pith notes behind."
- Josh Raynolds, November 2017
92 Points
"In most cases of highly-oaked Chardonnays, I have found myself rebelling from the obvious use of oak barrels. But in the 2015 Morgan Double L Vineyard, there is an excellent synergy of fruit and oak that makes the wine work well—beautiful fruit richness, barrel accents, and earth notes. Pair with lobster in a light cream sauce."
- Wilfred Wong, May 2017
91 Points
"Rich and powerful flavors of pear tart, toasted coconut and tangerine are supported by fresh acidity. Creamy midpalate, with a fresh finish that lingers with dried sage and spice details." - Kim Marcus, June 2017