Tyler Chardonnay 2024 750ml

Caitlin - Wine Specialist, Sherman Oaks

The Los Angeles area is in week 3 of a heat wave and I am feeling it. Everyone is trying to find the best way to escape the heat. I personally am searching for anything that can go from the fridge to my glass to help me cool down.

Up in Santa Barbara County there’s a great winery with a winemaker who has a chardonnay with a French twist. Unlike a lot of California chardonnay that tend towards heavy buttery expressions, Tyler chardonnay feels more old-world.  From his vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills Justin Tyler Willet is making innovative wine. His chardonnay has a more “Burgundian” style to it with lots of bright citrus and a mineral finish that keeps it from feeling heavy. A must have quality since the temperatures will be over 90 degrees for the next month.

There is a little oak in this chardonnay, but it isn’t overwhelming. It’s a supporting character, there to balance out the swirl of lemon and green apple and play off the honey, pear and vanilla. This is a well-balanced chard that would be the perfect bottle to put on the table with your poke bowls or a fresh salad.  It’s a great wine at a great price, which means like a snowman in Santa Monica they won’t last long.