Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast UV-SL Vineyard 2023

This wine combines a renowned winemaker, a special vineyard and an exceptional vintage. Mark Aubert makes Chardonnays that he describes as “hedonistic” for their full body and ripe fruit flavors, while they also show terroir-driven precision and finesse. The UV-SL vineyard, planted with the late vineyard manager Ulises Valdez Sr., is just six miles from the Pacific Ocean. Regarding the 2023 vintage, Aubert says, “the weather was conducive for flavor development. Chardonnay grapes climb up this crescendo and then when you get to the crescendo, you know you’ve got the flavor you want. It’s all about flavor for us.”

Tasting Note

Offers a stunning mix of crème brûlée, orange curd and peach preserves, with so much depth and complexity to the range of details, including wildflower honey and apricot pastry, plus spicy accents of nutmeg and Saigon cinnamon. Toffee and a touch of smoked salt linger on the finish. Drink now through 2035.—MaryAnn Worobiec