Presqu'ile Winery Santa Barbara Chardonnay 2023*

The 2023 Presqu’ile Santa Barbara Chardonnay opens with fresh aromas of Meyer lemon, Asian pear and crisp apple, layered with white flowers and a hint of coastal salinity. On the palate, it is energetic and refined, showing citrus-driven purity alongside subtle texture from lees contact. A whisper of spice and creamy undertones adds depth without overshadowing the wine’s natural freshness. The finish is long and mineral, offering a clean, polished expression of cool-climate California Chardonnay.

Quick Facts

• Vintage: 2023

• Region: Santa Barbara County, California

• Producer: Presqu’ile Winery

• Varietal: Chardonnay

• Vineyards: Sourced from select coastal-influenced sites

• Farming: Certified sustainable; organic-leaning practices

• Fermentation: Native yeast; mix of barrel + stainless steel

• Aging: French oak (mostly neutral) + lees aging for texture

• Alcohol: ~13–13.5%

Tasting Profile

• Aroma: Meyer lemon, apple, pear, white flowers, coastal minerality

• Palate: Citrus and pear, subtle creaminess, fresh acidity, delicate spice

• Finish: Long, clean, mineral-driven with lingering citrus notes

Why We Love It at Petit Philippe

Presqu’ile consistently delivers some of the most elegant cool-climate Chardonnays in Santa Barbara, and the 2023 release continues that legacy. We love its balance of brightness and subtle richness—enough texture to satisfy Chardonnay fans, yet crisp and energetic enough for guests who prefer fresher white wines. It’s a perfect bottle for gatherings where versatility is key.

Winemaking

Presqu’ile farms sustainably across vineyards shaped by cool Pacific breezes and sandy, marine-influenced soils—ideal for vibrant, aromatic Chardonnay. Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness to maintain acidity, then fermented with native yeast in a combination of stainless steel and neutral French oak. Partial lees aging imparts a delicate creaminess without overt oak influence. The result is a Chardonnay that reflects both site and season: pure, bright and effortlessly drinkable.

Serving & Pairing

Serve at 48–52°F.
Seasonal pairing suggestions:

• Roast turkey breast with citrus butter

• Holiday crab dip or shellfish

• Butternut squash soup

• Lemon and herb chicken

• Winter salads with apple or fennel

• Mild cheeses such as brie or young gouda

Its acidity and subtle richness make it a superb choice for first courses and lighter holiday dishes.

Drinking Window

2024–2028. Fresh and lively now, with potential to develop added roundness over the next few years.

Estate Overview

Presqu’ile Winery is a family-owned estate located in the cool, wind-shaped hills of Santa Maria Valley. With a focus on sustainable farming and minimal-intervention winemaking, the winery specializes in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc that highlight purity, texture and coastal freshness. The team’s dedication to crafting precise, elegant wines has earned Presqu’ile a reputation as one of Santa Barbara County’s standout producers.