Madson Wines Santa Cruz Mountain Chardonnay 2023

This Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay is a focused, coastal-driven expression that highlights freshness, minerality, and natural tension. Crafted with restraint, it reflects the influence of elevation and maritime climate, delivering brightness and nuance rather than overt richness.

Quick Facts

• Producer: Madson Wines

• Region: Santa Cruz Mountains, California

• Vintage: 2023

• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay

• Farming: Organically farmed vineyard sources

• Alcohol: ~12.5–13% ABV

• Style: Cool-climate, mineral-driven Chardonnay

Tasting Profile

• Aromatics: Lemon peel, green apple, white flowers

• Palate: Bright citrus, orchard fruit, saline minerality

• Structure: Crisp acidity, lightly textured mid-palate

• Finish: Clean, linear, and refreshing

Why We Love It

This is Chardonnay for drinkers who value precision over power. Madson captures the Santa Cruz Mountains’ natural freshness and complexity, producing a wine that feels lifted, transparent, and deeply connected to place—an elegant counterpoint to richer, oak-driven California styles.

Winemaking

Sourced from small, organically farmed vineyard sites throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains. Grapes are gently pressed and fermented with native yeasts in neutral French oak barrels. Elevage is intentionally restrained, allowing texture to develop while preserving acidity, mineral character, and site expression.

Serving & Pairing

Serve chilled. An excellent match for oysters, grilled seafood, roast chicken, or dishes featuring citrus, herbs, or delicate sauces. Equally compelling on its own for its clarity and balance.

Estate Overview

Founded in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Madson Wines is a site-driven project focused on elevation, coastal influence, and thoughtful stewardship. The winery works with organically farmed vineyards, employs native fermentations, and maintains a commitment to carbon neutrality—producing wines that emphasize restraint, balance, and a deep sense of place.