This is a display of coastal opulence. An outstanding Chardonnay bottling from Wayfarer's Fort-Ross Seaview estate vineyard. A selection of three different clones, this wine ferments with gross lees for about 15 months in oak. 100% malolactic fermentation, 52% new oak, you get a sense of the cool growing season and the ripeness achieved towards harvest. Rich, honeyed ginger aromas, beeswax and salty sea air communicate a cool minerality. The palate is intensely fruited, with grilled pineapple, smoky grilled lemon and honeyed ginger depth. Mineral salinity and smoky stone elements frame it all in a gorgeous structure and long-lasting finish.—a remarkable Chardonnay.
96 points, Clive Pursehouse, Decanter (Mar 2024)
A bright yellow/silver color, the 2022 Chardonnay The Estate is expressive in the glass with notes of wild flowers, pineapple rind, saline, delicate baking spice, and ripe pear. It’s medium to full-bodied and has a vibrant, ripe spine of acidity, with notes of candied lemon, as well as nicely balanced richness with a weightless feel. Mouthwatering, fresh, and long, it will have a wide drinking widow over the next 6-8 years.
94 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (Jun 2024)
Offers an energetic mix of pomelo, lemon sherbet, pear and Honeycrisp apple flavors on a sleek, juicy frame. Pineapple, lime zest and orange blossom details add complexity and verve, with a touch of Himalayan sea salt on the finish. Drink now. 1,100 cases made.
94 points, MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator (Jul 2024)