2019 Tondré Chardonnay

For this limited release, we went to one of the Highlands’ most experienced growers: Joe Alarid. Joe has been growing here long before the area was an official appellation, and is one of the Santa Luica Highlands most respected wine growers. Originally planted in 1997, the Tondré Grapefield is one of the Santa Lucia Highlands’ premiere estates.  This is the fourth year Morgan Winery has sourced both chardonnay and pinot noir for Tondré Grapefield single vineyard wines. Tondré is located in the center of the Santa Lucia Highlands, just to the south of Soberanes and Garys’ Vineyards. 

Hand-sorted grapes were whole cluster pressed, preserving fruit flavors and natural acidity. Barrel fermentation in French oak began with native yeast. Eighty-four percent malolactic conversion and 10 months aging in 30% new barrels added a touch of butter and rounded mouthfeel to the Tondré’s fruit character and bright acidity – giving us our characteristic “Morgan Balance”.

In the glass, the wine displays a beautiful light golden hue. Perfumes of pineapple, pear, and butter toffee are supported by quince, apple, and a hint of sweet baking spices on the palate. This is an elegant, layered chardonnay with myriad food-pairing possibilities. It should be served at cellar temperature (not too cold) and will go well with flavorful seafood and poultry dishes. Medium term, proper cellaring will be rewarded.

For tech sheet click here.