On the one hand, intense sunlight ripens the grapes. Meanwhile, the sea — meaning Monterey Bay — creates cooling breezes that lead to a longer growing season. Together, these two forces of nature create greater complexity in our Chardonnay.

Taking its name from the sea and sun – the two forces of nature that shape its exotic character – this wine is as dramatic as the place where it is sourced. With morning fog, bright sunshine, and gusting winds, the Santa Lucia Highlands (40 minutes south of Monterey, California) has an extended growing season. Grapes stay on the vine longer, leading to the development of intense aromas such as custard and toasted almonds, rich fruit flavors, and enlivening lemon/lime.

A mix of new and used French oak barrels for about 11 months. A portion goes through malolactic fermentation to ensure a firm acidity while hand stirring of the barrels imparts a creamy texture.