Poppy Chardonnay Santa Lucia Highlands (75cl, 13.5%)

A 100% Chardonnay from Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California, bottled at 13.5% ABV in a 750ml bottle. The Silva Family established the Poppy label in 2003, drawing fruit from their Hillside vineyard where Chardonnay vines have been rooted since 1972. Farming follows sustainable and organic practices, and the wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels and stainless steel tanks. The nose opens with lemon and honeysuckle, then cantaloupe melon, nutmeg, clove and white flowers. On the palate, sweet golden apple and ripe citrus give way to tropical fruit and almond, with creamy yeast character and vanilla from the French oak, plus mineral notes and bright acidity. The finish is moderate, with citrus-mineral quality, light toasty oak, cream and spice.