2021 Highland Chardonnay
With each vintage of Highland Chardonnay, we showcase the unique attributes of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. The 2021 cuvée includes 47% fruit from our certified organic Double L estate, with the balance from outstanding neighbors, including McIntyre and Tondré vineyards.
The grapes were hand picked and sorted in the vineyard. Whole cluster pressing preserved the fruit flavors with fresh acidity. Barrel fermentation occurred in 27% new French oak with native and cultured yeasts. Malolactic conversion ensured silky richness and a medium body.
This focused, elegant chardonnay’s aromas feature Bosc pear, Golden Delicious apple, and sweet baking spices. On the palate, aromas are complemented by lemon curd, baked apple, and a hint of butterscotch. Incredibly food-friendly, the Highland Chardonnay is a perfect match for cream-sauced pastas, roasted pork, and seafood.
Wine Specs
95 Points
"There’s a compelling combination of precision and depth on this bottling. Aromas of lemon glaze, thinly sliced Asian pear and crushed oyster shell lead into an acid-driven palate, where rounded flavors of pear, honeysuckle and celery cling to a firm, exciting structure." - Matt Kettmann, April 2023