The Paring Chardonnay Santa Barbara 2023 750ml

The Paring Chardonnay 2023 is a well-regarded California white wine from The Paring (a secondary label associated with The Hilt and Jonata wines in Santa Barbara County). It sources fruit primarily from cooler-climate sites like the Sta. Rita Hills (including declassified lots from the Salsipuedes vineyard that don't make it into higher-tier wines).

Tasting Notes

This is a medium-bodied, juicy, and lively Chardonnay with good energy and balance. Common descriptors include:

• Aromas and flavors: Melon, stone fruits (peach, nectarine), yellow apple, hard pineapple, ripe citrus, brioche, honeyed flowers, and subtle baking spices or almond notes.
• Palate: Soft and generous entry with ripe, silky fruit, followed by refreshing, vibrant acidity that keeps it focused and precise. It shows integrated oak influence without being heavy or overly buttery—more bright and textural than oaky.
• Style: An invigorating mix of richness and cut, with cool-climate tension. It's versatile at the table and appealing to a wide range of Chardonnay fans (not too lean, not too opulent).

Winemaker notes emphasize fruit richness and vibrancy, with tropical hints (pineapple, citrus) balanced by subtle almond/clove and a clean, bright finish. Barrel regimen typically involves a mix of neutral/new French oak and stainless steel (roughly one-third each), with partial malolactic fermentation for texture.

Professional Scores

• James Suckling: 92 points — Noted for yellow apple, hard pineapple, crisp acidity, and energetic texture with stone fruit.
• Jeb Dunnuck: 91 points (some sources list 90–91).
• Other mentions include positive Vinous notes highlighting value and performance relative to pricier California Chardonnays.

It aligns with the strong 2023 vintage in Santa Barbara, which delivered balance and freshness.