2023 Lioco - Chardonnay Sonoma County (750ml)
Lioco’s 2023 SoCo Chardonnay from Sonoma County embodies the winemaking philosophy at the heart of the label: let the fruit and the place speak with clarity, not heavy oak or butter. Grounded in the SoCo approach, this bottling concentrates on pure varietal expression sourced from the Russian River Valley and the Sonoma Coast corridor, then treated with restraint to reveal a bright, mineral-focused profile.
Origin and Winemaking
- Vineyards: Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast corridor
- Harvest: hand-picked in early to mid-October
- Winemaking: foot-tread at the winery and fermented entirely in stainless steel with no barrel lots blended in
- Alcohol: 12.5%
- Acidity: notably crisp with a low pH around 3.4
Taste Profile and Texture
The 2023 vintage yields a taut, steely frame that remains surprisingly generous on the mid-palate. Aromas and flavors open to golden apple, chalk, mint, marzipan, and chamomile, all delivered with a clean, crystalline texture that carries a delicate, almost creamy mouthfeel despite the stainless-steel fermentation. The result is a Chablis‑like Chardonnay that stays bright and precise from first sip to finish.
What Makes It Stand Out
This is among Lioco’s most Vintaged, SoCo‑style bottlings, showcasing how cold growing seasons with long hang times can produce mineral-driven tension and vibrant fruit without resorting to oak-forward manipulation. It’s a clean, pure expression of Sonoma County Chardonnay that still feels distinctly Lioco in its restraint and accuracy.
Food Pairings and Occasion
- Best with fish and chips
- Pairs well with fresh oysters
- Ideal for a sunny afternoon
Drink now through 2027.