Alfaro Family Vineyards, “Trout Gulch Vineyard” Chardonnay Santa Cruz Mountains, California 2019 (750mL)

The SommSelect team recently visited the Alfaros at their farm in Corralitos, California, and this Chardonnay, from their “Trout Gulch” vineyard, was a consensus favorite. Its combination of citrusy tension and ample texture had everyone talking, and this is a group whose Chardonnay palates are mostly tuned to a Burgundy frequency. And when we refer to the Santa Cruz Mountains as “underrated,” it’s because wines like this remain so modestly priced compared to those of other coastal Californian regions. 

In this ’19, sunny California meets chilly Burgundy (courtesy of the fathoms-deep Monterey Bay). Shining a deep yellow-gold in the glass, the wine has a citrusy feel at first, with aromas of lemon curd and pith supplemented by white flowers, fresh cream, and a hint of sea spray. With time open, it broadens nicely on the palate, showing the more apple/pear side of Chardonnay. A terrific choice for lobster and/or crab pastas.