2024 Diatom - Chardonnay Santa Barbara County (750ml)

Diatom is the singular project of winemaker Greg Brewer, best known for his work at Brewer-Clifton, and it focuses on one grape alone: Chardonnay. The name comes from diatomaceous earth, the plankton fossil-rich soil found beneath Santa Barbara County's vineyards, a nod to the marine terroir Brewer wants each bottle to reflect. His guiding philosophy is subtraction rather than addition, stripping away winemaking flourishes so the wine speaks directly for its place.

The 2024 Chardonnay is sourced entirely from Santa Barbara County vineyards shaped by cool Pacific air and marine-influenced soils. The wine is fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel, with malolactic fermentation kept to a minimum and no oak contact at any stage. This deliberately hands-off approach, paired with a short six-month aging period, is meant to preserve freshness and let the vineyard's saline, mineral-driven character come through with as little interference as possible.

The result is a clean, precise white with aromas of citrus, honeydew, and sea spray, layered with white peach, ginger, and orchard fruit on the palate. Bright acidity and a distinctive saline, mineral finish give it real energy. Pair it with oysters, grilled halibut, ceviche, or fresh goat cheese for a natural match.