Nielson Chardonnay Santa Barbara County

This wine comes from two growing regions within Santa Barbara County, both of which are influenced by unique soil types and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Santa Maria Valley is one of California’s coolest AVAs with well-drained soils and one of the longest growing seasons in the world. When picked at earlier stages of ripeness, Chardonnay from the Santa Maria Valley shows more citrus notes, and as the fruit ripens on the vine, it becomes increasingly tropical in expression. Just south of Santa Maria Valley and Los Alamos, the Sta. Rita Hills AVA is characterized by steep vineyard slopes, a distinct saline minerality, bright citrus notes, and the signature Santa Barbara County ocean influence.