2022 Dial Tone Chardonnay

In 2023, we were offered some amazing Chardonnay grapes from three renowned Santa Barbara County vineyards. In fact, the properties involved often find themselves in 95+ point rated wines. Despite this pedigree, fruit remained unsold even as harvest approached.

We’ve never been too much into making white wine – it is a bit more precise – like baking versus cooking. But we often find ourselves in need of a white wine for winemaker dinners, at tastings, and even at home. We were torn and discussed it for several days. Ultimately, it came down to this: 2023 was a superb vintage with a long, cool growing season, the type we haven’t seen since 1999. It was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up.

The wine clearly reveals the character of the vintage: elegant and refreshing, featuring a delightful blend of pear, apple, and citrus flavors, with a subtle touch of grapefruit. It carries hints of freshly grated ginger, lemon balm, and a crisp sea salt minerality. The finish reveals intricate notes of fresh herbs like lemongrass, adding a layer of complexity to the experience. - Adam Lee Wine