Chardonnay Mt Pajaro Vineyard

Rhys plants his vineyards densely, and the Pajaro even more so. The competition between the vines is fierce. Even though I can't understand why anyone would want to plant so densely in a dry region like California, the result – the wine – proves Kevin Harvey and his winemaker Jeff Brinkman right. So don't ponder, just enjoy. The Pajaro Chardonnay is perhaps Rhys' most heavenly white, or should I say the most seductive? Yes, seductive is right, because it smells so good that you don't hesitate for long before taking a tentative sip, just to make sure that the aroma and taste correlate, and yes, they do – and how they do.

There are abundant aromas of cedar and pomelo, as well as subtle mint notes that add an exotic touch, along with a fruity pepper note and a distinct mineral marbling. The palate is just as spectacular as the aroma, as the wine shows power but also freshness, finesse, energy, and a wonderfully salty note on the finish. This wine has that certain something, a certain transparency that connects all the layers of the wine – and there are many – all the aromas and components, creating a wine that you don't get in your glass every day. Be prepared for something very special. But wait, if you want to enjoy it right away, you should let it breathe properly or put it away for a few years. Either way, you have to have it!