2023 Cambria - Chardonnay Santa Maria Valley Katherine's (750ml)

Cambria Estate Winery sits on the Santa Maria Bench in Santa Barbara County and is part of the Jackson Family Wines portfolio built by Jess and Barbara Banke Jackson. Katherine's Vineyard takes its name from the Jacksons' daughter Katie, honored when the site was planted in 1986. The estate is known for a growing condition the winery calls refrigerated sunshine, the interplay of warm inland sun and cool Pacific fog that defines much of Santa Maria Valley's character, and the vineyard is farmed sustainably with a long-tenured winemaking team overseeing each vintage.

Katherine's Vineyard sits on ancient soils built from fossilized seashells, shale, limestone, and sand, a marine-influenced foundation that lends the wine its structure. The Chardonnay is fermented in both stainless steel and barrel, a method chosen to preserve fresh, bright fruit character while still adding textural depth and a touch of toasty complexity from the oak.

The 2023 vintage opens with lemon balm, baked apricot, and macadamia nut on the nose. A brisk wave of acidity cuts through a core of pear, apple, and citrus peel, with a subtle salinity and a warm oak note carrying into the finish. It's a natural match for roast salmon, fish tacos, or a creamy white sauce pasta.