Côtière, Chardonnay, Santa Barbara, California, 2018

Overview of the Wine
Côtière began in 2006 with our first commercial release, focussing on primarily Pinot Noir. With each vintage we strive to work exact rows, blocks and clones with acreage contracts whenever possible. This enables us to make small adjustments in farming techniques if needed, which is critical for producing top quality wines. We own and operate the very best equipment to ensure the best possible product, while maintaining a minimal winemaking philosophy. This allows the vineyards to be showcased and not the winemaking. Transparency as a winemaker always makes the best wines, particularly with Pinot Noir.

Currently, we work with much of the same vineyards but also have added a few new ones. We are very fortunate to be involved with some of the best vineyards on the central coast, which includes Talley Rincon Vineyard, Presqu’ile, Hilliard Bruce, La Encantada, Murmur Vineyard as well as La Rinconada and Sanford and Benedict for all our Burgundy varietals. Working with Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir along side Santa Maria Valley is incredibly rewarding due to their unique expressions. Our primary goal is to capture that unique expression in every bottle made.

The Bordeaux varietal program has expanded over the past decade. 2008 was our first introduction to Napa Valley fruit, and now not only have we continued with this program but expanded to Santa Ynez Valley for Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot - which do incredibly well in the warmer regions of Santa Barbara County. The Cabernet Sauvignon will always be sourced from Lewelling Ranch Vineyard in Saint Helena, and the Merlot from Mckenzie Mueller Vineyard in Los Carneros. Both sites have well established vines planted in the late 1980s and mid 1990s. We are so incredibly honored to have this opportunity.

Santa Barbara Chardonnay is a selected blend. 70% from the Murmur Vineyard planted in sandy loam, which is located in the coolest corner of Santa Maria Valley. And 30% La Rinconada Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills, situated on an extinct bend of the Santa Ynez River near Lompoc. Our block is planted mostly on alluvium and ancient river deposits.

Grape / Blend
100% Chardonnay

Origin
Lompoc, Santa Barbara County, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
This Santa Barbara County Chardonnay is a good all around choice to satisfy a wide variety of foods. With enough structure to age for five to six years, we think this wine is most enjoyable three years after the vintage year. This is truly a Santa Barbara County blend from warmer Santa Ynez Valley to the cooler Santa Rita Hills.

92 Points - Vinous (2017 Vintage)
This Chardonnay is bright as well as lush - Yet rich and tropical in its expression of fruit. The delicate and medium bodied finish boosts tangerine, honeysuckle, Meyer lemon zest and chamomile. All these components are pushed forward on the palate by fresh acidity. This well balanced and attractive Chardonnay will pair well with most spring dishes, shellfish, lightly seasoned poultry, or as a starter to the evening. 

92 Points - Ian Blackburn
Kevin is one of Santa Barbara best and most experienced winemakers.  He evokes nuance in his wine giving them stature and presence.  His wines are are round and rich - yet always feature length and acidity.  I believe this wine will appeal to both those that like a hint of creamy vanilla, and toast as well as those that enjoy minerality - as only Santa Barbara can provide.  Lemon curd, vanilla, toast, honey crisp apple, spice and complexity for days… an outstanding wine and an absolute value - tastes like $40 plus.  One of my favorite Chardonnay’s of the year.

Product size: 750ml