Nielsen Chardonnay 2023 750ml

$21.99

Uriel Nielson planted the first commercial vineyard in Santa Barbara County in 1964, back when the neighbors warned him it was too cold for grapes. This is the wine that carries his name. Sixty-five percent Monterey fruit, thirty-five percent Santa Maria Valley, fermented entirely in stainless and rested six months there too. No oak, no makeup. Citrus, orchard fruit, a salty coastal edge. Pull it for a Tuesday roast chicken.

Creamy citrus and tropical fruit on the nose. Lush and concentrated across the palate with rich nutty flavors, silky texture and fresh acidity holding the whole thing together. Clean, balanced finish.

Herb-roasted chicken, coronation chicken, richer fish, and creamy pasta dishes.

Nielson Vineyards sits in the Santa Maria Valley, one of California's coolest AVAs and one of the longest growing seasons anywhere. Picked earlier the Chardonnay shows citrus, left to hang it turns tropical. The Monterey County parcels add saline minerality. Ryan Pace makes the wine. Farming is sustainable.