Frequently Asked Questions
Elevate your wine collection with the Tyler Santa Barbara County Chardonnay, a stunning expression of the region's terroir and winemaking artistry. Crafted by celebrated vintner Justin Tyler Willett, this medium- to full-bodied Chardonnay bursts with vibrant notes of green apple, Meyer lemon, and juicy pear, complemented by hints of grilled pineapple and creamy vanilla. Whole-cluster pressed and aged on lees for 11 months, the wine showcases a seamless balance of zesty minerality, refreshing acidity, and subtle oak nuances. The result is a bright, elegant wine with a crisp, lingering finish that beautifully embodies the coastal charm of Santa Barbara vineyards. Ideal for pairing with seafood, poultry, or creamy dishes, this Chardonnay promises a versatile and refined tasting experience.
Process & Profile
The Tyler Santa Barbara County Chardonnay perfectly embodies the unique terroir of California's Santa Barbara wine region. This Chardonnay is made from carefully selected grapes sourced from renowned vineyards such as Sanford & Benedict, Bien Nacido, Dierberg, and La Rinconada. These historic sites boast soils ranging from sandy loam to shale, contributing to the wine's layered complexity. The winemaking process is meticulous: whole cluster pressing, native yeast fermentation in oak barrels, and aging for 11 months on lees, with no battonage and full malolactic fermentation, all executed to emphasize purity and elegance. The result is a medium-bodied, sustainably farmed Chardonnay showcasing minerality, bright citrus, and a hint of marine influence, reflecting Santa Barbara's cool-climate conditions.Tasting Notes
Tyler Chardonnay offers an aromatic bouquet bursting with flinty minerality, jasmine, fresh citrus rind, and orchard blossoms. On the palate, this wine delights with vibrant notes of green apple, lemon, grilled pineapple, and a whisper of butterscotch and roasted almonds. A refreshing acidity complements subtle oak nuances, culminating in a clean, crisp, and mineral-driven finish. This harmonious balance of flavors ensures a lively and satisfying sip every time.What Makes It Special
Tyler Winery's commitment to crafting wines of precision and poise distinguishes this Chardonnay. Justin Willett, the visionary founder and winemaker, champions organic farming practices and minimal intervention in winemaking to preserve the natural expression of each vineyard site. The use of old vines, sustainable methods, and native yeast fermentation further enhances the wine's depth and authenticity. Crafted in a style reminiscent of Burgundian Chardonnays, this wine achieves elegance and complexity without overpowering weight.How to Enjoy
The versatile Tyler Santa Barbara Chardonnay is a fantastic pairing partner for a variety of dishes:- Seafood: Pair with lighter fare like grilled salmon, lobster, or crab.
- Poultry: Complements roast chicken or turkey with creamy sauces.
- Vegetarian: Elevate creamy pastas, quiche, or roasted root vegetables.
- Cheese: Enjoy with creamy cheeses or mushroom-based dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary tasting notes of Tyler Chardonnay?
Tyler Chardonnay features bright and refreshing flavors, including notes of citrus, green apple, and hints of marine-inspired minerality. Aromatically, it can exhibit jasmine, citrus rinds, orchard blossoms, and flinty characteristics depending on the vintage.
Is the Tyler Chardonnay oaked or unoaked?
Tyler Chardonnay is aged in oak barrels and puncheons, but the use of new oak is minimal to preserve the purity and delicacy of the wine. This aging method ensures balance, allowing subtle oak nuances to complement the fruit flavors without overpowering them.
What is the acidity profile of Tyler Chardonnay?
Tyler Chardonnay is known for its crisp and refreshing acidity, a hallmark of its cool-climate origin in Santa Barbara County. This makes it versatile for food pairings and enjoyable as a stand-alone wine.
How is Tyler Chardonnay made?
The wine is whole cluster-pressed and briefly settled in a tank before fermentation begins. It undergoes full malolactic fermentation, which adds a creamy texture, and is left on the lees for about 11 months. The result is a complex and mineral-driven wine that reflects its terroir.
What foods pair well with Tyler Chardonnay?
The bright acidity and minerality of Tyler Chardonnay pair excellently with lighter dishes such as grilled seafood, roasted chicken, and vegetable-based salads. For richer meals, its subtler oak structure complements creamy pasta dishes and buttery seafood like lobster.
Where are the vineyards for Tyler Chardonnay located?
The Chardonnay grapes are sourced from renowned vineyards in Santa Barbara County, including Sanford & Benedict, La Rinconada, and Bien Nacido. These vineyards are recognized for their cool-climate conditions and high-quality fruit.
Does Tyler Chardonnay contain sulfites?
Like most wines, Tyler Chardonnay contains a small amount of sulfites, which are naturally occurring in wine and sometimes added for preservation. However, the wine is typically bottled unfined and unfiltered to maintain its integrity.
What is the serving temperature for Tyler Chardonnay?
To fully enjoy its flavors, serve Tyler Chardonnay at a temperature of 48-54°F (9-12°C), depending on whether it is unoaked or lightly oaked.
Can Tyler Chardonnay be aged?
Yes, Tyler Chardonnay can develop further complexity with aging. With its structure, acidity, and balance, it can be cellared for several years, allowing its flavors to evolve over time.
Is Tyler Chardonnay made sustainably?
The grapes for Tyler Chardonnay are farmed organically, handpicked at night, and sorted by hand. The winery limits its environmental impact, aligning with sustainable and minimal-intervention practices in both the vineyard and the cellar.
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