KISTLER CHARDONNAY SONOMA MOUNTAIN 2023

Kistler's Sonoma Mountain Chardonnay exemplifies their singular focus on site-specific wines, crafted exclusively from one heritage California selection cultivated since the mid-1980s. This elegant expression hails from the Athearn Estate (bottled since 1988) on Sonoma Mountain's eastern flank, where a rare combination of volcanic and limestone soils—ideal for nearby redwoods—creates a distinctive terroir. The meticulously selected clone, imported from Burgundy in the early 20th century and refined through decades of careful propagation, produces naturally low yields with small berries, great concentration, and remarkable acidity retention. Following native yeast fermentation, complete malolactic conversion, and 11 months in barrel without batonnage plus 3 months in stainless steel, this unfined, unfiltered 13% ABV wine offers delicate morning floral and citrus blossom aromas leading to a chalk-like, subtle core of ethereal fruit balanced by lovely acidity—a pure expression of Kistler's unparalleled approach to showcasing California's finest Chardonnay sites.