Reviews & Ratings
2022 Optik Chardonnay "Bien Nacido Vineyard"
Winery: Optik
Vintage: 2022
Wine Name/Vineyard: "Bien Nacido Vineyard"
Wine Category: Chardonnay
Grape blend: 100% Chardonnay
Bottle size: 750 ml
Region: Santa Maria Valley
State or country: CA
Price: $40
Cases produced: 615
KWG Score: 91.1 (based on 6 reviews)
Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (91)
Review date: February 11, 2026
Wine Review: This clear and goldenrod colored Chardonnay from Optik opens with a peach and pineapple bouquet with hints of cantaloupe and orange. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with integrated medium acidity. The mouthfeel is balanced, round, seamless and approachable. The flavor profile is a gentle Bosc pear and white peach blend with notes of vanilla custard and faint oak. I also detected hints of apple pastry and cantaloupe. The finish is dry, and its flavors and acidity drift away nicely. I would pair this Chard with a butternut squash ravioli parmesan and sage cream sauce. Enjoy - Ken
Winemaker Notes: This Chardonnay has a strong citrusy scent, dominated by zesty lemon with subtle hints of orange, making it refreshing, and invigorating. There's also a touch of intriguing brown spice and wet stone notes, reminiscent of a dew-kissed riverbank. To add a creamy and sweet element, you’ll detect hints of crème brûlèe, which contribute to the overall aromatic profile. The palate opens with a lush presence of stone fruit, with notes of ripe peaches and apricots. The bright acidity lends a refreshing and lively quality to the wine, providing a perfect balance to the fruity richness and ending with a long-lasting finish.
