Sandar & Hem Bruzzone Chardonnay 2018

The Bruzzone Vineyard sits just four miles from the Pacific Ocean, planted in 1998 on a site shaped by heavy marine influence. The result is a Chardonnay of striking translucence and precision — clean lines of chamomile, freshly grated yuzu zest, and light chalk on a chiselled nose, with a grippy, aggressively chalky texture on the palate surrounding white peach and tart orange flavours.

Bright acids and veins of underlying salinity perk up the lemon confit, mint, white pepper, and floral notes. A mid-weight, taut Chardonnay with plenty of class — give it a few hours of aeration before serving.

Vineyard: Bruzzone (planted 1998, 4 miles from ocean) | Region: Santa Cruz Mountains | Ageing: 12 months French oak (10% new), then 6 months stainless steel | Ratings: 94 pts Wine Enthusiast (Editor’s Choice)