Kinero Cellars Talley Vineyard Arroyo Grande Valley Chardonnay 2023 (750ML)

Anthony Yount bottles this 100% Chardonnay unfined and unfiltered after 16 months on its lees in French oak, stirring now and then along the way. The fruit comes entirely from Talley Vineyard in the Arroyo Grande Valley, where calcareous clays and shaly loam keep vine vigor in check and maritime conditions keep the climate cool. Whole clusters went straight from the press to barrel, native yeasts carried the fermentation, and malolactic went all the way through, rounding the texture without dulling it. The 2023 season was unusually long and cool, and it shows in bright, cutting acidity and clean varietal definition. Expect lemon peel, melon and pineapple with a touch of honey, white flowers and mint, a medium-weight palate and a stony, focused finish. Critics suggest drinking it by 2030. It is lovely with seared scallops, grilled oysters or a simple roast chicken.