Cambria 2018 Chardonnay, Katherine's Vyd., Santa Maria Valley

For 30 years, the Jackson family has sustainably farmed and passionately tended this remarkable Santa Maria estate. Proprietor Barbara Banke acquired a large portion of the original Tepusquet Vineyard (planted between 1970 and 1971) in 1986 to serve as the site for Cambria winery. Over the last two decades the vineyard has been expanded, replanted and updated with new clones and rootstocks to take advantage of the unique climatic and geological conditions of the Santa Maria Bench. Katherine Jackson’s namesake vineyard is planted in shallow sand and granite, draining away moisture and restricting vine vigor, forcing the vines to draw nourishment to the fruit, creating full ripeness and balanced acidity.
 

This wine is 100% Chardonnay from 90% old vine Clone 4 (46 years old). The wine was 75% barrel fermented in French oak 20% new and 25% stainless steel fermented. The aged for 8 months on the lees, stirred every 3 weeks.

Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored this 91 points saying "For such a widely available wine, this is an extremely reliable bet. Aromas of clean and light lemon, nectarine and sea salt are pleasantly mellow, while the palate offers balanced brushes of lemon peel and white peach, wrapped in a soft yet acid-boosted texture."


Wine Spectator scored this 92 points saying "Lithe and powerful, featuring a vibrant core of apple and peach pastry flavors, with dried tropical fruit accents. Buttery midpalate, delivering a plush finish that lingers with intense spiciness. Drink now through 2024."