Introduction
The 2022 Presqu'ile Winery Chardonnay from Santa Barbara County is a vibrant, elegant wine that captures the cool-climate character of this renowned region. Known for their sustainable practices and coastal-influenced vineyard sites, Presqu'ile Winery produces a Chardonnay with a fresh, mineral-driven profile, complemented by a touch of oak that adds complexity without overpowering the wine’s natural brightness.
Terrior
Santa Barbara County’s unique climate—where cool Pacific breezes and fog from the coast moderate temperatures—extends the growing season, allowing Chardonnay to develop depth of flavor while retaining acidity. The vineyard’s sandy and marine sedimentary soils enhance the wine’s crisp minerality, while the coastal influences impart a saline quality, giving the wine a distinctly Santa Barbara profile.
Appearance
Pale golden with greenish hues, bright and clear, indicating freshness and vibrancy.
Nose
Aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and white peach lead the nose, with subtle hints of honeysuckle, wet stone, and a touch of vanilla from oak influence.
Palate
The palate is medium-bodied with refreshing acidity, showcasing flavors of citrus, pear, and melon. The wine’s mineral core adds structure, while a delicate creaminess from partial malolactic fermentation provides a balanced texture. Notes of almond and a light touch of oak offer complexity without overshadowing the bright fruit.
Finish
The finish is long and clean, with lingering notes of citrus and a subtle salinity, leaving a refreshing and polished impression.
Overall Impression
The 2022 Presqu'ile Winery Chardonnay is a refined, coastal-influenced Chardonnay that combines bright fruit, minerality, and restrained oak, making it ideal for pairing with seafood, roasted chicken, or creamy pastas. It also shines as an elegant aperitif with a sophisticated, well-balanced profile.
Published Rankings
Wine Enthusiast Rating: 92
James Suckling Rating: 91
Robert Parker Rating: 90
Decanter Rating: 90
Published Awards and Recognition
Silver Medal, California Chardonnay Competition 2023
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable, with emphasis on soil health and minimal intervention. Presqu'ile Winery uses cover cropping, organic compost, and limited chemical treatments to maintain natural vineyard ecosystems. The winery also utilizes dry farming practices when possible, relying on natural rainfall to promote root depth and drought resilience.
Producer Name: Presqu'ile Winery
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: Santa Barbara County, California
Grape Varietals: Chardonnay
Vintage: 2022
Wine Style: Dry white
Winemaking Techniques: Fermentation in stainless steel and neutral oak with partial malolactic fermentation, allowing for a balance of freshness and texture
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork