Ojai Vineyard Clima Frío Chardonnay 2023
- v93
- jd92
Category | White Wine |
Varietal | |
Brand | Ojai Vineyard |
Origin | California, Central Coast, Santa Barbara |
Alcohol/vol | 13% |
Adam Tolmach of Ojai Vineyard is one of the pioneers of the Santa Barbara County wine scene. He founded Au Bon Climat with Jim Clendenen, then moved on to start Ojai in 1983. To this day, he has never grown past the 6000 cases he makes each year in three makeshift, temperature-controlled barns in the backwoods of Ojai. By choosing to work strictly with cool climate vineyards and paying growers by the acre, Adam ensures himself control of the farming and the yields. He makes elegant, aristocratic wines and has been at the forefront of the growing movement of American winemakers to make more balanced wines, prizing finesse over power. Ojai Vineyard is one of California's best kept secrets, though one Corkscrew customers have known for many years!
Ojai's Clima Frío Chardonnay comes from two vineyards in the Western fringes of Santa Barbara County. This Chardonnay displays dazzling aromas of citrus-drizzled, white stone fruit with hints of crushed chalk and sea spray. The medium-bodied palate showcases this wine's beautiful texture and leesy roundness which swaddles flavors of white peach, apricot and lemon curd. Extremely well-balanced, the Clima Frío Chardonnay is guided effortlessly toward a long, delicate finish by nervy acidity and a vibrant wet stone minerality. Pair with sushi, flaky white fish or chicken piccata. For a real treat, enjoy this invigorating Chardonnay with classic moules-frites.
Vinous
- v93
The 2023 Chardonnay Clima Frío is fabulous. Rich, creamy and expansive, the 2023 offers striking depth for an appellation-level wine. Apricot, tangerine peel, hazelnut and lightly honeyed notes build into the deep, resonant finish. The Clima Frío is essentially the Santa Barbara County bottling with a new name. Vineyard sites are Rancho Ontiveros and Yellow Foxtrot.
Jeb Dunnuck
- jd92
Baked apples, honeysuckle, brioche, and ripe melon all emerge from the 2023 Chardonnay Clima Frio, a beautifully pure, medium-bodied Chardonnay that's nicely balanced, has a layered, elegant mouthfeel, integrated yet high acidity, and a great finish. It brings an interesting, richer aromatic profile while staying vibrant and lively on the palate.