Bien Nacido Estate Chardonnay 2018

Professional Ratings

• 95 Wine Enthusiast

  Energetic aromas of lemon peel, crushed chalk, shiso leaf, crushed oyster shells and light mint show on the sizzling nose of this bottling. The palate is fascinatingly mineral-driven, offering wet rocks and more seashells, but also waves of tangerine cream and grapefruit peel. Drink through 2038.

• 93 Tasting Panel

   The steely, high-toned citrus entry of this whole cluster–pressed Chardonnay, aged sur lie for 16 months in (20% new) French oak, is exciting. White flowers shine— lemon blossom, chamomile, jasmine—in combination with notes of Asian pear and lemon oil. With precision and searing acidity, it will hold up to spicy, pungent dishes. 

• 93 The Somm Journal

  Steely, high-toned citrus is an exciting entry for this whole cluster–pressed Chardonnay. Aged sur lie for 16 months in (20% new) French oak, the wine shines with white flowers: lemon blossom, chamomile, and a hint of jasmine. Precision and searing acidity define its character, along with Asian pear and lemon oil. It will hold up well against spicy and other powerfully flavored dishes.

• 92 Jeb Dunnuck

  The medium gold 2018 Chardonnay Bien Nacido Estate Santa Maria Valley offers a classy, Burgundian bouquet of spiced orchard fruits, white flowers, toasted hazelnuts, and honeysuckle. This carries to a medium-bodied, elegant Chardonnay with plenty of sweet fruit, a supple, elegant texture, and a great finish.

• 91 Wine & Spirits

  This wine feels blunt at first pass, with a lactic presence and toffee’d oak notes. But it feels bright and weightless after a day open, the caramel and lemon-lime flavors working into a layered weave with crisp pear and citrus, and a tart, mouthwatering finish.