2022 Diatom Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
The 2022 Chardonnay, vinified without malolactic conversion and matured in stainless steel, opens with inviting aromas of quince, white peaches, toasted meringue and citrus blossom streaked with hints of matchstick and saline. The medium-bodied palate balances ripe, floral fruit with focused acidity, and a touch of textural breadth lengthens the finish. It combines the verve of Chablis with the ripeness of California. It deserves 2-3 years in bottle to unwind.
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Jancis Robinson MW
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
Made by Greg Brewer and a smoking value, the 2022 Diatom has vibrant citrus and tart pineapple-like notes as well as a medium-bodied, seamless, silky style on the palate. It's a joy to drink already yet has complexity, layers, and depth, and is a beautiful Chardonnay. The 2022 comes 85% from the Mission Hills Vineyard and 15% from Bar-M (Los Alamos), both in Santa Barbara County, and it was fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks, with malolactic fermentation blocked.
Fermented at very low temperatures in small stainless-steel tanks for eight weeks, with malolactic conversion blocked. Smells of white flowers and citrus pith. Silky flavours of white flowers, lemon pith, pomelo pith and a hint of stone fruit with faint salinity and very good acidic backbone. Despite seeing no oak, the wine has a nice breadth and texture. GV (AY)