Spring Release Highland Divide Chardonnay
2023

Winemaker’s Notes

Blended from two classic Occidental ridgeline vineyards that neighbor Charles Heintz Vineyard to the north and south, our latest Highland Divide bottling is an open-knit wine that you can open soon after release. These two wonderful Dutton Ranch vineyards combine to reflect what makes this narrow stretch of ridgeline—the divide between the valley below and the coastal mountains above—such a compelling place to grow grapes: deep resonant flavors, chewy billowing texture, underpinned by vibrant coastal acidity. The most forward of our Chardonnay wines but will still develop in bottle for eight years.

The aromas are dominated by Meyer lemon and lemongrass notes with edges of mint, thyme, and white flowers. There’s immediate and obvious richness to the palate, which is deep and broad yet zesty and electric. Lemon curd and lime oil intensity builds with complex flint and candied ginger notes. A rising note of fragrant jasmine adds intrigue to the wine’s echoing finish. Drink between 2025 and 2033.

Andy Smith