Paul Lato 2023 “Ma Jolie” Chardonnay Peake Ranch Vineyard, Santa Ynez 96+ Points

Paul Lato Notes: “This Chardonnay consists of two clones, Hyde and Wente, grown on gentle northwest-facing slopes. This wine was fermented and aged sur lie for 16 months in French oak; creating a balanced Chardonnay that combines the freshness of wet river stones with classic notes of lemon curd and crushed seashells. Its extraordinarily vibrant energy and minerality come from the remarkable vintage and the coastal influence of this historical Santa Rita Hills site. The 2023 Ma Jolie reminds me of the great chardonnays of the Côte de Beaune.”

FMW 96+ Points: ” The  Ma Jolie Peake Ranch Vineyard is located in the hills of Santa Ynez. This youngster offers up a gorgeous nose of bright tropical and orchard fruits, as well as a touch of minerality. The wine Is lush and rich with a full body and laced with the right amount of well-balanced acidity. The wine is layered from start to finish with gorgeous fruit and long and silky tannins.”

Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points: “The  Ma Jolie Peake Ranch Vineyard Chardonnay opens with a kiss of reduction. This gives way to more lemon-laced fruits, chalky minerality, tangerines, and exotic flower nuances. With medium to full-bodied richness, it’s a ripe, fleshy, beautifully balanced 2022 that has a solid spine of acidity, as well as a great finish.”