2021 Cobb Wines - Chardonnay Sonoma Docs Ranch Joann's Block (750ml)

Cobb Wines is led by Ross Cobb, whose family's deep respect for the land shapes every decision at the winery. Ross studied soil science at UC Santa Cruz before returning home to farm organically and regeneratively, personally overseeing the handful of extreme western Sonoma Coast vineyards the family works, including Coastlands and Doc's Ranch.

JoAnn's Block is a tiny 0.3-hectare parcel of Clone 5 Chardonnay within Doc's Ranch Vineyard, planted in marine sedimentary soils about 1,000 feet up and just three miles from the Pacific, among the westernmost sites on the Sonoma Coast. Ross picks by taste and aroma rather than lab numbers, then lets the wine go through full malolactic fermentation before aging twenty-two months in French oak, only ten percent of it new.

This Chardonnay opens with scents of golden apple, saline, beeswax, and a whisper of matchstick, layered with lemongrass and seaspray. The light-bodied palate is intensely focused, driven by cut green apple, lemon oil, and a bright, mineral edge that lingers on the finish. It's a natural match for fresh crab cakes, ceviche, or a simple goat cheese.