Chardonnay

Spanish Springs Vineyard sits close enough to the Pacific that fog rolls in every evening and does not lift until late morning, with midday sun and ocean wind drying the fruit in between. Those conditions push grapes toward ripeness slowly, which is where this wine's acidity comes from. Oceano has been working the site since 2016 and makes its Chardonnay in a deliberately lighter style, with freshness and lift instead of the buttery, heavily oaked profile the grape often gets. Aromas run to lemon curd, guava and apple with citrus blossom and a little brioche behind them. The palate is dry, textured and mouthwatering, finishing long on citrus. The 2024 vintage is alcohol removed, under 0.5 percent, with 10 calories per 5 ounce pour and 2 grams per litre of sugar. Serve it cold, next to seafood.