Marine Layer 'Gap's Crown Vineyard' Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, California 2022

Marine Layer is a Sonoma-based winery dedicated to expressing the nuanced, cool-climate character of the Sonoma Coast through small-lot Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. With a deep focus on sustainable vineyard sourcing and minimalist winemaking, the team crafts elegant, site-driven wines that reflect their maritime-influenced origins. The ‘Gap’s Crown Vineyard’ Chardonnay is a single-vineyard bottling from one of the most iconic sites on the Sonoma Coast, offering a powerful yet refined expression of the region’s coastal terroir.

• WINEMAKER: Rob Fischer

• FARMING: Sustainably farmed; sourced from Gap’s Crown Vineyard, which practices low-input viticulture with a focus on vine health and environmental stewardship.

• VARIETY: 100% Chardonnay

• TERROIR: Gap’s Crown Vineyard sits at high elevation on the western slope of Sonoma Mountain, directly in the path of the Petaluma Wind Gap. The site’s volcanic and rocky clay-loam soils, paired with persistent coastal fog and wind, create naturally low yields and a long growing season—ideal for building intense flavor while preserving freshness.

• VINIFICATION: Grapes are hand-harvested and whole-cluster pressed. Fermentation is carried out in French oak barrels (30% new) using native yeasts. Partial malolactic fermentation is allowed for balance and complexity.

• AGING: Aged for 10 months in French oak (30% new), with regular bâtonnage to enhance mouthfeel and aromatic richness. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.

• TASTING NOTES: A complex and layered Chardonnay with aromas of Meyer lemon, crushed stone, white flowers, and subtle baking spice. On the palate, it is richly textured yet balanced by firm acidity, showing notes of pear, citrus curd, toasted hazelnut, and saline minerality. The finish is long and poised, with lingering freshness and depth.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Excellent with roasted chicken, Dungeness crab, lobster in brown butter, or creamy pasta dishes. Also pairs well with aged cheeses like Gruyère or Comté.

• SCORES: 94 Points – Wine Advocate; 93 Points – Jeb Dunnuck