2023 Lindquist Family Viognier-Chardonnay 50-50 Blend
This wine is 50% Viognier from the Bien Nacido Vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley, and 50% Chardonnay from the Reeves Vineyard in the Edna Valley. Because it comes from two different appellations it carries the more broadly defined Central Coast AVA. Part of Bien Nacido, that is included in the Santa Maria Valley AVA, is actually in San Luis Obispo County, and the Viognier is from that part, right behind the winery.
2023 was an outstanding vintage on the Central Coast, cooler than normal, and blessed by copious amounts of rain in the Winter and Spring. The Chardonnay at Reeves is the Dijon clone 76, which ripens at lower sugar levels, typically around 21.0° brix. This blends perfectly with the Viognier, which is picked on the ultra-ripe side, usually around 25.0-25.5° brix.
The Chardonnay was harvested on October 3rd, the Viognier on October 26th. The grapes were whole cluster pressed, chilled overnight, then transferred into neutral French oak barrels for fermentation and aging. It was aged in barrel, on the lees, for 8 months before blending and bottling in July 2024.
This wine is all about the character of ultra ripe Viognier, which dominates the aromas of the wine with ripe peaches, honeysuckle and lychee nuts. The Chardonnay plays a critical supporting role in the wine, giving it freshness, acidity and balancing the alcohol. The aromas carry over into the flavors. Of all the wines I make, this one makes the best aperitif… and yet it will stand up well with all lighter foods and mild cheeses. Bottled under screwcap for easy access…chill it down and enjoy it over the next two to three years.
Bob Lindquist
November 2024
*92-93 (Barrel Sample) Antonio Galloni Vinous
