2013 Chardonnay “Le Souvenir” Sierra Madre Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2013 Chardonnay Le Souvenir Sierra Madre Vineyard is a classic Paul Lato Chardonnay built on texture and resonance. Candied lemon, orange peel, spices and butter blossom in the glass. The flavors are quite rich, yet there is a sense of energy in the 2013 that keeps things in focus. Bright saline notes add lift on the finish. The 2013 is both rich and precise. Ideally the 2013 needs at least a few years to integrate the oak a little more fully. This is a terrific example of Santa Maria Chardonnay.
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
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From a tiny 4.5-acre block in one of the oldest vineyards in the Santa Maria Valley, the 2013 Chardonnay le Souvenir Sierra Madre Vineyard saw 14 months in 55% new French oak. Medium to full-bodied, lively, full-flavored and with vibrant acidity, it offers up ample, mineral-laced notes of apple blossom, citrus, honeysuckle and classy oak. Still tight and backwards, it needs a year or so to come together and should be at its best from 2017-2023.