2018 Chardonnay Mt. Pajaro Vineyard
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This 5.75-acre (2.32-ha), north-facing vineyard sits at 1,000 feet (305 m) above sea level on top of shallow soils derived from the black Pajaro shale formation, which lends its name to the vineyard. It is planted with a combination of heritage and mass selection of Chardonnay. 333 cases made. Palest gold. Aromas lean more floral and mineral as notes of white flowers and grapefruit pith suffuse the nose, while the body of the wine is all grapefruit and pomelo. Citrus pith lingers in the finish, with filigreed acidity that gains power as the wine finishes. Mouth-watering to be sure but doesn't quite reach the heights of the Horseshoe bottling. Having said that, this is a truly fine specimen of Chardonnay. (AY)
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
A classic, mineral-laced white from this team, the 2018 Chardonnay Mt. Pajaro Vineyard has a bright gold hue as well as lots of salty, citrus fruits, notes of honeysuckle and white flowers, medium-bodied richness, and a juicy, balanced, elegant texture. It's beautifully done and ideal for drinking over the coming 4-6 years.
The 2018 Chardonnay Mt. Pajaro Vineyard is a powerful, deep wine with a sense of structure that recalls a red wine. A huge core of fruit give the 2018 a feeling of virile intensity. Readers should expect a potent, savory Chardonnay that will surely be at its finest at the dinner table.