2018 “Aries” Sonoma Coast Chardonnay - Marine Layer Wines

Poached pear, baked cashew, sliced golden apple. Ripe mango, baled hay, sweet cantaloupe melon. Pure and expressive pulses of lemon curd, blanched peach, and pineapple writhe with youthful and energetic fervor as notes of jasmine, nutmeg, and crème brûlée further complicate the outgoing yet elegant display. Hints of honeysuckle and wild daisy surface in a wave of high toned floral perfume that intersects with subtle oak influences of cinnamon, clove, and clean baking spice. Layers of integrated decadence continue to emerge as hazelnut, honeycomb, and light cream bolster implied opulence without detracting from impressions of sea breeze, sandy loam, and salty marine-influenced terroir. Nicely round yet wonderfully vibrant on the palate with a terrifically long and crisp finish; exhibiting outstanding balance and freshness along with sneaky power that comes across as simultaneously soft and nervy. Medium plus in body and illuminated by beautifully elevated acidity. This 2018 "Aries" Sonoma Coast Chardonnay by Marine Layer Wines is a delightfully lively, well made, and delicious white from Sonoma County.

While Chardonnay is grown in nearly every region that wine is made in California, few would argue that the best examples of this legendary Burgundian white grape come from more marginal vineyard sites near the coast. This bottling, crafted by Marine Layer Wines using Chardonnay sourced from various premier vineyards along the Sonoma Coast, magnificently captures the magical purity and complexity that coastal California Chardonnay can achieve. Made in a ripe and expressive yet exceptionally well balanced style, this wine radiates warm tropical and orchard fruit complimented by lifted floral tones, subtle creamy nuttiness, and lovely oak-derived baking spice. It is not shy in the slightest yet maintains excellent tension and composure throughout, and accurately captures the rugged yet sunshine-filled character of Sonoma Coast terroir. Excellent.