2013 Dierberg "Dierberg Vineyard" Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay

The 2013 Chardonnay Dierberg Vineyard is super-polished and finessed from start to finish. Scents of almond, lemon peel and flowers open up in this striking, effortless Chardonnay. Orange peel and slightly more tropical notes develop with air in a Chardonnay that offers superb textural depth and tons of personality, all in a laid-back, understated style that is such a signature of Santa Maria. I have high hopes for Dierberg and its sister property, Star Lane. Winemaker Tyler Thomas, who was previously at Donelan, arrived in 2013, while Charles (AJ) Fairbanks, formerly of Hyde de Villaine and a Santa Barbara native, became President of both wineries late last year. Thomas's first wines at Dierberg show tremendous promise. In particular, readers will not want to miss the 2013 Chardonnay and Syrah off the Dierberg property, both of which are superb. (AG)