I don’t often find this relatively austere style of Chardonnay in this price range, and it is much appreciated. Bone dry, it finds a balance point between tart acidity and viscous texture that lets notes of grilled pineapple, nut and pear to speak without shouting. It’s a nice mate for chicken or fish dishes where the prep is subtle with the herbs and spices.
Qupé, Santa Barbara County (California) Chardonnay 2019
By Rich Cook