Taste: Rich, golden center with a matching rim. Aromas of raw honeycomb, Asian pears, and orange blossom shine through the nose. The bold mid-palate parallels the opulent fruit expected of Santa Barbara County, and French oak is apparent and well integrated. Subtleties of caramel and butterscotch provide a nice base for the dessert-like fruit. Classic Santa Barbara sherbet qualities show and are inspired by the ripe fruit and crisp acidity. With great viscosity and structure, this wine is drinking beautifully right now.
Cameron Confidential: This wine was made for us by a stunning custom crush facility that normally produces wine for 30 high-end wine producers. We got our hands on some great reserve-tier juice last fall from which we made three amazing Chardonnays. This Chardonnay in particular was our middle-ground Chard. Essentially, we made one with no oak, one with heavy oak and malo, and one that sits nicely in the middle ground—this one. We used two different types of French oak for a great depth of character. If you remember the reserve wines of Meridian done in the early- to mid-'90s, you'll find this wine familiar. These are the types of wine that Santa Barbara was known for. Lot 145 is a fantastic deal on Chardonnay, and if you are looking to explore this varietal, you have found a great wine in taste and price to try out and come to enjoy.
Staff Picks
Lot 145
2008 Santa Barbara County Chardonnay
- Vintage: 2008
- Appellation: Santa Barbara
- Grape: Chardonnay
- Alcohol by volume: 14.1%
- Production: 5,124 cases
- Release date: November 10, 2009
- Drink/Hold: Now/2012
- Online availability: Sold out
Downloads
- Lot 145 sell sheet (pdf)
- Lot 145 small notes (pdf)
