A bright, mineral-driven wine that captures the elegance and energy of California’s coolest coastal vineyards. Crafted from carefully selected fruit from top blocks in the appellation, it reflects the region’s sandy, well-drained soils and persistent maritime influence, producing Chardonnay with crisp acidity, layered texture, and clear sense of place.
Ryan Deovlet, the winemaker behind Deovlet Wines, has built a reputation for precision and restraint. He focuses on letting the vineyard speak, using gentle fermentation and judicious oak aging to highlight freshness, aromatic complexity, and natural vibrancy. His Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnays consistently earn attention for their purity, balance, and ability to age gracefully without losing approachability.
On the nose, expect aromas of white peach, citrus, and floral notes, lifted by subtle hints of mineral and sea spray. The palate is medium-bodied, structured yet silky, with bright acidity carrying flavors of lemon, green apple, and stone fruit into a long, precise finish. This wine is elegant, restrained, and versatile, showcasing why Deovlet has become one of California’s most respected producers of cool-climate white wine.
Why You Will Love It
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Cool-climate clarity: Sta. Rita Hills fruit gives this Chardonnay bright acidity, focused minerality, and coastal freshness.
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Elegant and restrained: The wine balances richness and structure with subtle oak and natural vibrancy.
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Winemaker pedigree: Ryan Deovlet crafts precise, site-driven wines that consistently highlight the purity and potential of Sta. Rita Hills.
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Immediate appeal and aging potential: Drink now to enjoy its freshness or cellar for several years to see added depth and complexity.
How to Serve It
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Serve lightly chilled at 46–50°F in white wine stems to showcase crisp citrus, floral lift, and mineral notes.
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Pair with grilled seafood, roasted chicken with herbs, creamy pasta with lemon, or soft cheeses to complement its brightness and structure.
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Pop and pour or lightly decant 15–20 minutes before serving to allow aromatics to open fully.
Critical Acclaim:
93 Points, Wine Advocate:
"Built around lots of Zotovich and Sanford & Benedict as well as La Encantada, the 2023 Chardonnay Santa Barbara County is another impressive wine that transcends its status as a "regional" bottling. It is a decidedly more weighty and broad expression of the Sta. Rita Hills, opening with honeyed orchard fruit, nougat and bread dough aromas, followed by a creamy, dense palate and a flashy, vibrant finish."
92 Points, Vinous Media:
"The 2023 Chardonnay (Santa Barbara County) massively overdelivers at the $35 price point, with its weighted peach fruit lending balance to the inner phenolic tension. Deliciously weighted and propulsive, the 2023 is impeccably balanced and impressively complex. An echo of flint lingers on the clean, cool-toned finish."