The Mission Santa Barbara Chardonnay 2016

“This Chardonnay practically transmits California sunshine!”

Our California expert, Clare Tooley, really flipped for this stunning Chardonnay – and we’re not surprised. It’s from the cellars of a famous Central Coast family and the Golden State’s superb 2016 vintage.

The Millers are California wine pioneers and, for five generations, have proudly flown the flag for the Central Coast region. Today, they own some of the most coveted plots in all of California (including the famed Bien Nacido vineyard). And as you’ll taste here, they take their legacy of excellence very seriously.

Skilled winemaker Richard Shelton sourced the Chardonnay for The Mission from top spots in premium Santa Barbara County – including the prestigious White Hills Vineyard, known for imparting a wonderful streak of flintiness and mouthwatering vibrancy to wines. Richard partially fermented the grapes in stainless steel (to retain that natural, zingy elegance) and partially in oak (which imbues the wine with a subtly spicy, toasty complexity). The final touch was to let it rest sur lie, giving the wine an extra-rich, creamy mouthfeel.

Thanks to the fantastic 2016 vintage, the flavor dial is turned way up here. Look forward to ripe, peachy-lemon flavor, plus vanilla-spice notes and a long, smooth finish. Thinking ahead to dinner? We’d suggest roasted chicken, creamy seafood dishes, or herbed pork loin.

Speaking of thinking ahead: The Mission was made in small batches – so prompt orders are recommended.