2018 Côtière Chardonnay 'Talley Rincon Vineyard'

What an amazing Chardonnay from an incredible site and one of our favorite winemakers! 100% sustainably grown Chardonnay from the famed block 13 of the Talley Family’s Rincon Vineyard, planted in 1982 to the Wente clone. Native yeast fermentation, complete malolactic fermentation and 20% new French oak all combine to produce a rich, elegant and structured Chardonnay. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.  12.0% alcohol. Only 336 bottles made! There are complex aromas of citrus (tangerine, lemon), light tropical notes, barrel spice, orange blossoms and fresh cream and butter. The oak is surprisingly hidden on the palate, where the intensity of flavor is met by buoyant but soft acidity.  Certainly one of the most distinctive and delicious Chardonnays we’ve tasted recently. 

94 points, Antonio Galloni's Vinous. "The 2018 Chardonnay from Talley Rincon Vineyard is bright, focused and sculptured. Orchard fruit and floral notes abound in this delineated, classy Chardonnay from Brian Talley’s vineyard in Arroyo Grande. The 33% new French oak is hidden amongst the orange blossoms, spice, and tropical fruits. The 100% malolactic fermentation, and native yeast brings about a true and distinct profile."