2019 Highland Chardonnay 1.5L
With each vintage of Highland Chardonnay, we showcase the unique attributes of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. The 2019 cuvée includes 51% 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 and natural acidity. We barrel fermented the wine in 26% new French oak and partial malo-lactic ensured the wine a creamy richness, balanced by bright acidity.
This focused, elegant chardonnay’s aromas feature lemon curd, caramel apple, and apple pie. On the palate, aromas are complemented by a light touch of baked apple and pear. Incredibly food-friendly, the 2019 Highland Chardonnay is a perfect match for cream-sauced pastas, roast pork, and seafood.
Wine Specs
92 Points
"Decadently spiced, with accents of roasted hazelnut and caramel to the well-knit baked apple and pear tart flavors. Dried mango hints line the open-textured finish. Drink now through 2025." - Kim Marcus, December 2021
92 Points
"Toasted brioche, slices of white peach and a drizzle of honey show on the nose of this classically made Chardonnay. The palate is texturally intense, with wet stone structure and flavors framing the chamomile and lemon-splash flavors." - Matt Kettmann, December 2021
92 Points
"8 months in French oak barrels with 26% being new, along with 90% malolactic fermentation furnishes a medium to full-bodied, medium plus acidic Chardonnay. Baked cinnamon apple, toasted brioche, white tea and yellow wild flowers combine to form a scrumptious Central California Chardonnay that should deliver well over the next 5-7 years." - Jeremy Young, December 2021
93 Points
"Lush toasted nose, smooth, balanced, rich, with bright tangy style." - Anthony Dias Blue, August 2021
Double Gold Award - January 2022