Tatomer ‘Vandenberg’ Riesling, Santa Barbara County, California 2023

Graham Tatomer has become one of California’s most respected Riesling specialists, working with coastal vineyards that channel the grape’s tension, minerality, and aromatic precision. ‘Vandenberg’ is his flagship dry Riesling, sourced from the wind-beaten Kick-On Ranch—one of the coolest, most exposed vineyards in Santa Barbara County. The result is a Riesling of cut, texture, and striking coastal energy.

WINEMAKER: Graham Tatomer

FARMING: Practicing Organic

VARIETY: 100% Riesling

TERROIR: Sourced from Kick-On Ranch, located northwest of the Sta. Rita Hills. This wind-stressed site sits on Betteravia sandy loam soils and experiences frequent coastal gusts that slow ripening and intensify flavor concentration. Approximately 15% of the fruit comes from a section naturally affected by Botrytis, adding aromatic lift and subtle richness.

VINIFICATION: Hand-harvested fruit fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel. The wine is vinified dry (6 g/L residual sugar) with 20% of the lot undergoing malolactic fermentation, bringing texture and roundness while preserving the grape’s natural acidity.

AGING: Aged one year in stainless steel at the winery, followed by an additional year in bottle before release, allowing the wine’s structure, aromatics, and saline character to harmonize.

TASTING NOTES: The 2023 ‘Vandenberg’ shows vibrant citrus, green apple, and white peach layered with floral tones and a hint of botrytis-driven spice. The palate is dry, taut, and mineral-forward, with crisp acidity balanced by subtle texture from partial malolactic fermentation. A long, saline finish highlights the coastal influence of Kick-On Ranch.

FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with sushi, Thai curries, shellfish, grilled white fish, or fresh chèvre. Also excellent with spicy dishes due to its balance and precision.

SCORES:

• James Suckling - 94
• Vinous - 93
• Wine Advocate - 92