2022 Paysan Chardonnay "Jack's Hill", Monterey, California (750ml)
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Ian Brand walks a fine line here between the oaked richness sometimes associated with California Chardonnay, and something more akin to Macon-Villages in France. His own comments follow, and as always they are helpful and interesting . . .
Producer Notes - "Location: Predominantly from a few vineyards at the base of Jacks' Hill. Planted on the distinct iron oxide granite that dominates the east side of the Salinas Valley directly east of Sleepy Hollow North. Clone 4 and 76 on 101-14 and 3309 rootstock, 35-year-old Wente clone on unknown rootstock (nobody remembers what it is). Also blended with small lots of Chardonnay clone 17 (Robert Young) from the northern Santa Lucia Highlands. We limited production of our 2022 Chardonnay to the best lots in the winery. Winemaking: Picked at low brix and high acid. Pressed to tank, cold settled 24 hours, racked to neutral oak barrels and puncheons, one new oak puncheon, and stainless tanks. Barrel (50%), concrete (40%) and tank (10%) aged 7 months. Partial malolactic fermentation. Tasting Notes: Lemon curd and grilled pineapple with hints of stone fruit pits and clove provide an intriguing introduction. The pineapple leads on the palate before giving way to summer peaches. This wine finishes with mild salinity, well integrated acids and leaves you with subtle hints of chai spice."