Bien Nacido Vineyard 2023
The 2023 Bien Nacido Chardonnay showcases the excellence of one of California’s most renowned vineyard sites. A cooler-than-usual growing season, with a wet winter followed by a mild summer, allowed for slow and even ripening, resulting in a wine of deep complexity and balance. Sourced from the original 1973 plantings in Block I of Bien Nacido Vineyard, this Chardonnay reflects the unique terroir of gravelly loam and shale soils, with the ideal climate of gentle sunshine and cooling Pacific winds.
This light yellow wine with silver highlights presents ripe aromas of papaya, yellow apple, and pineapple, accented by jasmine, apple crisp, quince, and crème fraîche. On the palate, it is medium full-bodied with flavors of dried apple, roasted pear, and subtle notes of tres leches, caramel sauce, and arugula, adding complexity and depth to each sip.
Aged for 11 months in 100% French oak, this Chardonnay is a refined expression of its historic origins, offering a harmonious blend of richness and freshness.