Melville Chardonnay Estate - 2023 (750ml) Vougeot The sotol plants are cooked

The sotol plants are cooked in an outdoor conical oven and then milled by hand with axes

I really like the combination of power and energy here

yet it’s not overdone

and the agua miel is naturally fermented and twice distilled in copper pot stills

cloves and violets seem to jump from the glass

Melville Chardonnay Estate - 2023 (750ml) Vougeot The sotol plants are cookedWinemaker's Notes: Aromatics of clementines and underripe pineapple are followed by a kiss of Pacific Ocean breeze. A harmonious tug of war between texture and tension creates a wonderfully balanced wine with mouthwatering notes of pineapple core, Japanese pear, and orange blossoms. The laser focused acidity and touch of ocean minerals really bring this wine together, creating a long and refreshing finish. 94 points Vinous Media The 2023 Chardonnay