Broadbent Chardonnay, North Coast, California 2023

Crafted by importer and storyteller Bartholomew Broadbent, this inaugural North Coast Chardonnay reflects his decades-long ties to California’s coastal vineyards and commitment to wines that celebrate connection, conviviality, and craftsmanship. The fruit is sourced from longtime friends in Sonoma and Mendocino—regions he’s admired for over 35 years.

• WINEMAKER: Lorena Hernandez

• FARMING: Sustainable

• VARIETY: 100% Chardonnay

• TERROIR: Sourced from vineyards across Sonoma (85%) and Mendocino (15%) in California’s North Coast AVA. The 2023 season saw a cool spring and moderate summer, with extended hang time that encouraged phenolic ripeness and complexity. Soils in these areas range from loamy coastal alluvium to gravelly volcanic, imparting freshness and structure.

• VINIFICATION: Grapes were pressed off the skins and underwent a cool fermentation using inoculated yeast to preserve freshness and aromatics. Fermentation and élevage took place in 70% stainless steel and 30% neutral French oak barrels, then blended and bottled in early January 2025.

• AGING: 70% stainless steel, 30% neutral French oak

• TASTING NOTES: Crisp citrus and green apple frame a supple core of quince, white peach, and yellow plum, edged by butterscotch and baking spice. A bright acid spine lifts the palate, while creamy undertones and a whisper of oak round out the finish.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with pan-seared halibut, roast chicken with tarragon, Dungeness crab, or a fresh peach and burrata salad.

• SCORES: 90 – James Suckling