Aubert UV-SL Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
We refer to this wine as the “chameleon,” as it evolves and morphs in each glass. The combination of climate, soil, and rare clones planted at UV-SL produce kaleidoscopic, site-driven nuances. Winemaker notes The 2024 UV-SL Chardonnay is all about poise and precision. The wine opens with inviting aromas of citrus blossom, nectarine, and opal apple, but it is the saline coastal elements of crushed seashell, wild fennel, and sea spray that really sing and celebrate this site’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean. On the palate the wine is expansive and texturally fine, especially when allowed time to blossom in the glass, gaining breath and volume quickly. Dynamic, evolving wines like this are a sure bet for graceful and rewarding ageing, and the 2024 UV-SL Chardonnay will continue to develop and unfurl for the coming 10 to 15 years of bottle age. The wine is slightly hazy, showing our commitment to minimal intervention winemaking. - Mark Aubert 2023 Vinous 96: The 2023 Chardonnay UV-SL Vineyard is a wild, exotic wine. Lifted tropical notes meld info a core of green orchard fruit, mint and lime zest. As is so often the case, the UV SL is defined by its textural presence, layers of fruit and plush, enveloping curves. Wine Specator 96: 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. 2024 Vinous 95-97: The 2024 Chardonnay UV-SL Vineyard soars from the glass with captivating aromatics. Freshly cut flowers, slate, mint, chalk and dried herbs lend notable aromatic brightness. This tense, salivating Chardonnay is shaping up to be a jewel of wine. A bit of time in the glass brings out the winds textural richness and overall presence. There's tremendous depth and intensity here. James Suckling 99: The density and layers to this are impressive with a full body and an oily, complex palate. Smoke, ash, gunpowder and white pepper at the end. It pulls together at the finish into greatness. Drink or hold.