Introduction
Character Description
The Melville Estate Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay 2023 displays a brilliant, pale golden hue with shimmering green reflections. It offers an intensely aromatic and captivating bouquet of bright lemon zest, crisp green apple, and white peach, elegantly interwoven with sophisticated notes of wet stone minerality, subtle saline, and a hint of white flower blossom. On the palate, it delivers a medium-bodied and exquisitely precise texture, with vibrant fruit and mineral flavors that mirror the nose. It’s supported by a mouthwatering, saline-driven acidity that provides exceptional freshness and a long, expansive finish, showcasing layers of purity and a remarkable tension between fruit and minerality. The finish is persistent, clean, and exceptionally refreshing, leaving a lingering impression of vibrant citrus, underlying salinity, and the profound, unadulterated character that defines a world-class, cool-climate Chardonnay.
Perfect Pairings
This vibrant and mineral-driven Chardonnay is an exceptional partner for a wide range of delicate and fresh dishes, perfectly complementing its lively acidity and pristine fruit profile. It pairs beautifully with freshly shucked oysters, pan-seared scallops with lemon and herbs, grilled white fish (like halibut or cod), and ceviche. Its zesty character also makes it an ideal accompaniment to goat cheese salads, chicken piccata, and sushi or sashimi. The wine’s purity and refreshing qualities make it a fantastic choice for a summer luncheon, an aperitif, or for those who appreciate a focused and compelling white wine that truly expresses its cool-climate origin. Serving it well-chilled will allow its intricate aromatics and crispness to shine.
About the Winery
Melville Winery is a family-owned and operated estate located in the heart of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA in Santa Barbara County. Established in 1996, Melville is a pioneer in the region, dedicated exclusively to the production of estate-grown, cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah. Their philosophy centers on meticulous dry farming, minimal intervention in the cellar, and a deep respect for the unique terroir of their vineyards. With every step of the winemaking process handled in-house, from hand-harvesting to gentle pressing and natural fermentation, Melville strives to produce wines that are pure, authentic expressions of their origins. The Estate Chardonnay is a true representation of their commitment to showcasing the profound influence of the Sta. Rita Hills’ maritime climate and calcareous soils on their wines, embodying freshness, complexity, and a genuine sense of place.
