7 Delectable California Chardonnays Up to 92 Points

In addition to the Chardonnay renaissance happening in the Golden State, where wines are showing more delicacy, restraint and transparency than ever before, some stunning new releases make this category more exciting than ever. This week’s Tasting Highlights includes Chardonnays with a range of styles and price tags to consider when shopping for summer libations.

The 2022 vintage was challenging. A Labor Day heat wave essentially created two vintages for California vintners: grapes picked before the temperatures took off, and grapes picked after. Thankfully, most white wines—including Chardonnays—were picked in the first half, and as a result, there were plenty of wonderful Chardonnays made, like the distinctive, elegant and aromatic Kerr that tops this list.

The rest of the wines come from the more even 2023 vintage. The mild growing season allowed for extended hang time. Winemakers had plenty of opportunity to adjust yields and pick the grapes at their leisure. The result is expressive, concentrated wines that, in some cases, are even a touch showy. The succulent and fleshy Gott bottling showcases how a long growing season like 2023 can contribute to rich Chardonnay—think of the sensation of biting into a ripe peach. A terrific vintage also adds a little bit of extra oomph to value bottlings like the Roots Run Deep Educated Guess, which is distinctive and floral. Meanwhile, Chateau Souverain’s smooth and fresh-framed Chardonnay is an excellent value at $12.

Tasting Highlights’ wine reviews are fresh out of the tasting room, offering a sneak peek of our editors’ most recent ratings—including scores and full tasting notes—to WineSpectator.com members.

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