Ridge Estate Chardonnay 2023

Ridge has been producing Chardonnay from Monte Bello since 1962, and over the decades the wine has earned a reputation as one of California’s finest examples. The long, cool 2023 growing season stretched into late October, giving the fruit time to develop concentration while preserving bright natural acidity. Hand-harvested whole clusters were gently pressed and fermented with indigenous yeasts in barrel, followed by a natural malolactic fermentation. The wine then spent fifteen months on the lees in a carefully judged mix of American and French oak, only a small proportion of which was new. Ridge’s minimal-intervention approach ensures purity of flavour and a true expression of site.

The result is a dry white of remarkable depth and finesse. Aromas of apple, citrus zest, brioche, and vanilla are layered with tropical notes of guava and pineapple, accented by hints of toasted marshmallow, lavender, and flint. The palate is both vibrant and supple, with flavours of pear, white peach, lime, and crushed stone supported by lively acidity and subtle oak spice. A touch of smoky reduction brings a Burgundian lift, while the long finish underscores balance and minerality. This is a wine of real structure and longevity, capable of graceful evolution over the next eight to ten years.

Clive Pursehouse from Decanter scored 94 Points "Ridge has made this Chardonnay from the Montebello estate since 1962, but it's less than 5% of the planted acres. This comes from the lower slopes of the original Klein Ranch. A long, cool growing season pushed this Chardonnay back a month in 2023, in terms of harvest dates. An extended hang time gives the wine a nice balance. While it is opulent and ripe, with vanilla bean and poached pear from 80% American oak, its whole cluster is pressed and spends 6-8 months sur lie with a weekly battonage. The palate is lushly fruited with creamy notes of lemon curd, baked apple and a bright, nearly savoury finish. Delicious." - (April 2025)

Elegant yet powerful, it shines alongside refined seafood, with baked stuffed lobster making an especially inspired pairing.