Paysan 'Jack's Hill' Chardonnay '22

From a steep, coastal-influenced vineyard at 1,400 ft elevation, this Chardonnay shows why the Santa Cruz Mountains rival Burgundy. Pale gold with silver reflections, it offers a complex nose of lemon curd, toasted hazelnut, and a struck match reduction that speaks to its wild yeast fermentation. The palate is tightly wound yet expansive - flavors of Golden Delicious apple, wet flint, and a touch of crème fraîche unfold across a texture that's simultaneously creamy and electric. Vinous (96 pts) suggests "cellaring until 2026+ for full expression," though it's stunning now with lobster thermidor. Aged 16 months in 35% new French oak.