Morgan Chardonnay Santa Lucia Highlands 2023 750ml

Expert Reviews – Vintage 2023

The Tasting Panel 94 Points | Spending eight months in (25% new) French oak, this startlingly focused Chardonnay tastes of luscious pear crme, honeysuckle, and toasted brioche. Lemon meringue suits up on mid-palate, with ripe pineapple and a pinch of salty stone on the finish.” – Meridith May, September 2024

James Suckling 93 Points | Pure and precise aromas of lemon zest, flint and orange blossoms. The palate is medium-bodied with tightly wound acidity supported by a creamy texture, giving notes of lime curd, almond meal and grapefruit. Citrus driven with a nicely integrated, underlying power.” – January 2025

The Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | White melon, crisp nectarine and apple slice aromas are cut by sea salt on the cohesive nose of this bottling. Theres a sharper, crystalline focus to the palate, where citrus edges cut into the warmer cantaloupe and tropical touches, with lively acidity throughout.- Matt Kettmann, December, 2024

Vinous 90 Points | The 2023 Chardonnay Highland is ample and lively, opening with an uncomplicated nose of golden apple, nectarine and savory herbs. A nicely measured inner sweetness makes this approachable and easy to like. The 25% new oak is skillfully integrated, adding a spicy kick through the focused finish. Well done. Billy Norris, August 2024

Winemaker Description

With each vintage of Highland Chardonnay, we showcase the unique attributes of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. The 2023 cuve includes 50% fruit from our certified organic Double L estate, with the balance from outstanding neighbors, including McIntyre and Tondr vineyards.

The grapes were hand picked and sorted in the vineyard. Whole cluster pressing preserved the fruit flavors with fresh acidity. Barrel fermentation occurred in 25% new French oak with native and cultured yeasts. Malolactic conversion ensured silky richness and a medium body.

This focused, elegant chardonnay features aromas of lemon, pearberry, and baking spices, complemented by flavors of pineapple, lemon curd, and a hint of butterscotch on the palate. Incredibly food-friendly, the Highland Chardonnay is a perfect match for white fish, poultry, and light pasta dishes.