2023 Fat Bastard Chardonnay, California North Coast

Fat Bastard Chardonnay from California’s North Coast is unapologetically rich, round, and full of personality — exactly what you’d expect from a wine with this name. It’s a classic, sunshine-soaked California Chardonnay, designed to deliver immediate satisfaction with bold fruit, creamy oak and that buttery finish many Chardonnay lovers crave.

Sourced from vineyards across the cool pockets of the North Coast AVA, including Mendocino and Sonoma, the wine benefits from foggy mornings and cool nights that preserve acidity while allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and build flavour. Fermentation is part stainless steel and part oak barrel, followed by malolactic fermentation and ageing on lees for added texture and a lush, layered mouthfeel.

In the glass, it shows golden straw hues and opens with aromas of baked apple, pineapple, toasted vanilla, buttered brioche and a hint of citrus zest. The palate is generous and creamy, full of ripe stone fruit, melon, spiced oak and butterscotch, finishing smooth and slightly toasty with balancing acidity.

Food pairing: a natural match for lobster rolls, roast chicken with tarragon cream sauce, mac and cheese, or butternut squash ravioli. Also delicious with popcorn, salty snacks or rich cheeses like triple cream Brie.

Cellar potential: best enjoyed in its youthful, plush state over the next 2 to 4 years.