Sea Sun California Chardonnay, crafted by the esteemed Charlie Wagner family, is a harmonious expression of California's famed coastal vineyards. This Chardonnay offers a captivating balance of lush and crisp qualities, with enticing aromas of lemon zest, ripe peaches, and toasted oak, complemented by a hint of brioche. On the palate, flavors of juicy apricots, white peach, and a touch of vanilla blend smoothly with vibrant acidity and a creamy, round texture. The wine's finish is fresh yet indulgent, marked by a subtle minerality reminiscent of sea-salted air. Perfect for pairing with gourmet dishes like roasted chicken or grilled seafood, or enjoyed on its own, this 2022 vintage is a testament to California's diverse terroirs and the artistry of winemaking.
Process & Profile
Sea Sun Chardonnay is a testament to the diverse coastal vineyards of California. Grapes are sourced from top wine regions, including Solano, Monterey, and Santa Barbara counties, where the interplay of the Pacific's cool breezes and sun-kissed warmth creates perfect growing conditions. Each vineyard contributes unique characteristics, from Monterey's vibrant acidity to Solano's rich fruit and Santa Barbara's nuanced complexity. The result is a wine that encapsulates the best of California's terroirs with seamless integration of fruit, oak, and acidity.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Pale straw color with sunlit highlights.
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Aromas: Fresh lemon zest, juicy red apple, and the nectar of peaches and apricots, accented by nuances of lightly grilled mango, soft butterscotch, and toasted oak.
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Palate: Creamy entry with flavors of ripe apricots, lemon curd, and brown spices. Bright acidity combines with a subtle minerality and hints of brioche, creating a balanced and refreshing profile.
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Finish: The vibrant acidity and integrated oak culminate in a smooth, lingering finish with notes of cinnamon, lemon squares, and a touch of smokiness.
What Makes It Special
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California Coastal Influence: Sea Sun is crafted from vineyards influenced by California's coastal breezes and warm sunshine, promoting a long growing season for complex, flavorful grapes.
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Winemaking Excellence: Created by Charlie Wagner, from the renowned Wagner family, Sea Sun reflects generations of winemaking expertise and a commitment to quality.
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Balanced Flavor Profile: This Chardonnay strikes the perfect balance between fruity richness, refreshing acidity, and subtle oak integration, appealing to a broad range of palates.
How to Enjoy
- Perfect alongside creamy pasta dishes, roasted chicken, grilled seafood, or soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
- Balanced acidity makes it a wonderful complement to citrus-infused dishes or seasonal salads.
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Serving Tips: Best served chilled at 45–50°F to highlight its vibrant aromas and flavors.
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Occasions: Whether it's a casual evening, a celebratory meal, or a relaxing moment, Sea Sun Chardonnay elevates any experience.
Embrace the beauty of California's coast in every sip of Sea Sun Chardonnay. Its vibrant character and versatile appeal make it a must-have for wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Sea Sun Chardonnay taste like?
Sea Sun Chardonnay offers a balanced flavor profile with fresh scents of lemon zest, toasted oak, and vanilla. On the palate, expect juicy notes of peaches and apricots, combined with a refreshing minerality and pleasant acidity. Its medium-bodied mouthfeel provides a smooth, lingering finish.
Where is Sea Sun Chardonnay sourced?
This wine is crafted from grapes grown in California's premier coastal regions, including Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Solano counties. These areas benefit from cooling Pacific breezes and varied terroirs, contributing to the wine's unique character.
How should Sea Sun Chardonnay be served?
For optimal enjoyment, Serve Sea Sun Chardonnay slightly chilled. If it's oaked, a serving temperature around 54°F (12°C) is ideal to highlight its creaminess and complexity.
What is the alcohol content of Sea Sun Chardonnay?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) of Sea Sun Chardonnay is 14.3%.
What foods pair well with Sea Sun Chardonnay?
Sea Sun Chardonnay's versatile profile complements a variety of dishes:
- Light fare like grilled seafood, roasted chicken, or summer salads pairs well with the wine's bright acidity.
- Creamy or rich dishes, such as lobster or creamy pasta, highlight its subtle oak and buttery notes.
What is the difference between oaked and unoaked Chardonnay, and which category does Sea Sun Chardonnay fall into?
Oaked Chardonnay emphasizes creaminess and flavors like butter, vanilla, and caramel, often derived from malolactic fermentation and oak barrel aging. In contrast, unoaked Chardonnay is crisper, focusing on fruit and mineral notes. Sea Sun Chardonnay leans toward the oaked style, with integrated flavors of oak and a creamy texture.
Does Sea Sun Chardonnay contain added sugar or sulfites?
Like most wines, Sea Sun Chardonnay contains naturally occurring sugars and added sulfites, which are preservatives used in winemaking. However, the winery does not label it as "low sugar" or "low sulfite."
Can Sea Sun Chardonnay be aged?
While not specifically designed for long-term cellaring, Sea Sun Chardonnay can be enjoyed for a few years after purchase to allow its flavors to develop further.
Is Sea Sun Chardonnay suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely. Its versatility, balanced flavors, and smooth finish make it a great choice for both casual sipping and celebratory meals. It pairs elegantly with a wide range of foods and is a crowd-pleaser for diverse palates.