Tyler Santa Barbara County Chardonnay 2022

Ok, for those of you who read the tag line, there is probably nothing more for Waterford to add to this write up other than – “yeah, we agree.”

To us, Justin Tyler is making some of the most dynamic Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs coming out of Santa Barbara. This is a Chardonnay of structure, clarity, intensity and subtlety. It is not an in-your face oaky Chard, but it’s not driven ultra-lean and steely. If Americans would allow their Chards to be compared to Burgundy (and vice versa), here is one that hits the flavor notes of Burgundy – plenty of dry extract, a long, mineral finish, a touch of baby-fat fruit up front on the palate, with focus and precision. At this price, it’s as good as anything I’ve ever had from Burgundy.

To my understanding, Justin began making wine almost 20 years ago in his home town of Santa Barbara. But for my palate, things really took a substantial turn in 2015 to 2019. In 2015 he and his wife were able to purchase a vineyard, and that has revolutionized all the wines. Their 2020 vintage was absolutely exceptional and instantly sold out. We are excited to offer the 2021 allocation!

The points and thus the calculated QPR don’t lie. I believe that this winery is on the road to super-stardom.

This things just been rocking my world lately. 

"The 2021 Chardonnay overdelivers for its appellation-wide status. It has pretty scents of quince, poached pear, spring honey, chalk and roasted almonds. The medium-bodied palate is satiny, savory and expansive with dynamic flavor layers and a very long finish." - Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate (95 points).