Today's Wine Review
2023 Mer Soleil Chardonnay "Santa Lucia Highlands Reserve"
Winery: Mer Soleil
Vintage: 2023
Wine Name/Vineyard: "Santa Lucia Highlands Reserve"
Wine Category: Chardonnay
Grape blend: 100% Chardonnay
Bottle size: 750 ml
Region: Santa Lucia Highlands
State or country: CA
Price: $24
Cases produced: unknown
KWG Score: 89.5 (based on 2 reviews)
Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (91)
Review date: January 15, 2026
Wine Review: This clear and golden yellow colored Chardonnay from Mer Soleil opens with a banana and pineapple bouquet with hints of poached pear and mango. On the palate, this wine is full bodied with medium plus acidity. The mouthfeel is balanced, round, and a little lush. The flavor profile is an Anjou pear and pineapple blend with notes of mango and oak. I also detected hints of buttery, orange zest, and lemon squares. The finish is dry, and its flavors and acidity subtly drift away. I would pair this Chard with a crab cocktail or crab stuffed halibut. Enjoy - Ken
Winemaker Notes: Nose: Layered notes of Meyer lemon curd and honeysuckle. A character shaped by breezes off the Pacific Ocean.
Palate: Fresh throughout, with the flavor of lemon squares. A perfect balance of creaminess and lightness leads into a clean finish.
Suggested food pairing: Pan seared Chilean sea bass or creamy fettuccine alfredo.
Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Mer Soleil 2023 Santa Lucia Highlands Reserve Chardonnay.
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