2020 Highland Chardonnay
With each vintage of Highland Chardonnay, we showcase the unique attributes of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. The 2020 cuvée includes 48% fruit from our certified organic Double L estate, with the balance from outstanding neighbors, including McIntyre and Tondre vineyards.
The grapes were hand picked and sorted in the vineyard. Whole cluster pressing preserved the fruit flavors with medium acidity. Barrel fermentation in 29% new French oak and partial malo-lactic ensure the wine’s silky richness and medium body.
This focused, elegant chardonnay’s aromas feature asian pear, graham cracker, and baking spices. On the palate, aromas are complemented by a light touch of toffee and Nilla wafer. Incredibly food-friendly, the Highland Chardonnay is a perfect match for cream-sauced pastas, roast pork, and seafood.
Wine Specs
91 Points
"White peach and creamy butter aromas are cut by steely minerality on the nose of this bottling. The palate shows a strong oak streak, with flavors of toasted nut and creamy stone fruit." - Matt Kettmann, November 2022
91 Points
"This Highlands Chardonnay is brought up in 29% new French oak barrels, with the rest being neutral, for 8 months. Notes of dried banana, red apple, fresh mango, and crushed clove pop from the glass. Easy drinking, fresh and lively on the palate, this lovely Chardonnay is an extraordinary wine for the price point." - Jeremy Young, June 2022
90 Points
"Keeping twenty percent of the fruit from undergoing malolactic fermentation keeps this wine bright and allows for a clean finish in what is otherwise a hearty, nicely oaked offering. Lemon creme, apple and a touch of butter make this a crowd pleaser at a price that will please your budget. I would look to roast chicken with a generously herbed butter rub as a pairing here." - Rich Cook, August 2022