Grapes: 100% Chardonnay

We love Santa Barbara wines, and this is a classic. Sea Smoke is located on south-facing hillside bluffs which receive plenty of sunshine (hey it's California) but the difference comes in the layer of marine fog (sea “smoke”) that travels up the Santa Ynez River canyon each evening, cooling the vines. This cooling influence makes extended ‘hangtime’ possible prior to harvest – allowing flavors and tannins to fully mature, while still maintaining lovely acidity. This results in wines that are lush, elegant and expressive.

The grapes for this Chardonnay come from loamy, well-drained soils on their estate vineyard. Dijon and Wente clones are fermented in stainless steel as well as in French oak foudres and demi-muids. This is an elegant chardonnay with a focused mid-palate and the refreshing cool climate acidity characteristic of Sea Smoke Vineyard.