2022 Arnot-Roberts Trout Gulch Chardonnay, Sonoma

From own-rooted, dry-farmed vines planted in 1980, the 2022 Chardonnay Trout Gulch Vineyard balances a soft, inviting texture with a chiseled, focused frame. The nose is floral and oceanic, with hints of leesy richness in the background. Cutting and laser-like in its attack, the palate is balanced and spry with a chalky, clean and long finish. It is one of the more consistent Chardonnays in California, and its bright, strident style has positively influenced others toward restraint and vibrancy.

93+ points robertparker.com

The Trout Gulch Vineyard is tucked within a dark and forested coastal canyon at 600 feet above the sleepy village of Aptos, about four miles from the ocean in Santa Cruz County. This beautiful and pioneering site was planted by Bernard Turgeon in 1980 to the old Wente clone of Chardonnay, which is considered by many to be the heritage selection of Chardonnay in California. Harvest at Trout Gulch often stretches until mid-October and this long, slow growing season results in wines that are high in natural acidity, strong minerality, and have notable salinity on the palate.