Paul Lato 2023 “Le Souvenir” Chardonnay – Sierra Madre Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley – 97 Points

Paul Lato Notes: “Now in its 17th vintage, this Chardonnay comes from a cherished parcel of Wente Clone in Santa Maria, the site of my very first Chardonnay. It offers layered notes of Meyer lemon, Asian pear, and Red Delicious apple, complemented by a touch of vanilla and warm baking spices.  Bright acidity balances the wine’s depth, complexity, and richness, leading to a long, refined finish.”

Jeb Dunnuck 97 Points: “The  Chardonnay Le Souvenir Sierra Madre Vineyard has a pure, crystalline nose of ripe stone fruits, white flowers, chalky minerality, and hints of minty herbs. This carries to a medium-bodied Chardonnay that has a layered mouthfeel, bright yet perfectly integrated acidity, and a great finish. It has just a kiss of background oak, and as with the other wines from Lato, it opens up beautifully with air. Drink bottles any time over the coming 7-8 years. I wouldn’t be surprised to see it keep longer.”