2021 La Pelle 'Bien Nacido Block 1' Chardonnay Santa Maria Valley

Winemaker Notes: The nose is vivid, notes of lemon zest, peaches, and citrus with pleasant nuance reduction. Acidic and bright mid-palate weight with tiered textures. Soft velvety structure, hint of oyster shell, lemony and bright acidity. French oak rounds the palate and lingers with refreshing layers of tropical flavors. The wine is expressive and will continue to evolve over time. 

The grapes were picked overnight, whole cluster pressed, transferred into a settling tank for a few hours then barreled down. Native fermentation and native malolactic took place in barrels over 4-5 months. Once it was dry, we left it on lees for the balance of the aging process. Harvested from the oldest vines on property, the famous Bien Nacido Block I, planted in 1973, is an own-rooted section.