2021 Optik "Bien Nacido Vineyard" Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay

There's a great deal of restraint on the nose of this bottling, which shows crushed rocks, apple flesh and a hint of lime. The palate continues a similar track, as apple skins cut through the Asian pear core, with a firm tension throughout. (MK)

This is an absolute rocking deal in Chardonnay! Bien Nacido Vineyard Chardonnay for under $15?! That's pretty much unheard of from this celebrated, Grand Cru status vineyard. The price gets even more ridiculous when you factor in that Optik winery is a collaborative project between the Miller Family (who own Bien Nacido) and super star winemaker Joey Tensley! So you've got world-class, cool-climate, estate-grown fruit from one of the most celebrated vineyards in California, being crafted by a supremely talented and critically acclaimed winemaker, for $15...need I go on!? The wine itself strikes a beautiful balance between rich, toasty, golden fruit, and zesty, saline, vibrant acidity. There's plenty of texture and power for folks who want a more classically styled California Chardonnay, some well integrated oak from barrel fermentation, but the cold, fog laden ocean air, and marine shale soils of Bien Nacido keep this wine focused, bright, and infused with stony minerals. I was super impressed with this wine and we went deep on it to get the very best possible pricing to pass on to you. Enjoy!