Appearance: Brilliant pale gold with glints of green
Nose: Vibrant aromas of ripe pear, yellow apple, and lemon curd, complemented by notes of toasted hazelnut, white flowers, and a hint of vanilla bean
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with excellent concentration. Layers of Granny Smith apple, Meyer lemon, ripe stone fruit, and brioche. The oak influence is well-integrated, providing subtle spice and texture rather than dominating the fruit character.
Finish: Long and persistent with crisp acidity balancing the richness, ending with mineral notes and a touch of sea salt characteristic of the Santa Lucia Highlands terroir
Producer: Morgan Winery Vineyard: Double L Vineyard (Double L stands for "Double Luck" in reference to owner Dan Lee's twin daughters) Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, California Certification: Certified organic vineyard (first in the Santa Lucia Highlands) Vintage: 2020 Varietal: 100% Chardonnay Clones: Primarily Dijon clones with small amounts of older California selections Soil: Well-draining, rocky, granitic loam Climate: Cool-climate influenced by fog and winds from Monterey Bay Elevation: Approximately 200-500 feet above sea level Harvest: Hand-picked in the cool early morning Fermentation: Barrel fermented with native and cultured yeasts Aging: 10 months in French oak barrels (approximately 30% new) Alcohol: 14.2% ABV Production: Limited production, approximately 1,500 cases Suggested drinking window: 2022-2028
The Double L Vineyard is Morgan's crown jewel property, located in the northern end of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. This estate vineyard was planted in 1997 and received organic certification in 2002. Its position on the terraced hillside benefits from the cooling influence of Monterey Bay, allowing for a long growing season that develops complex flavors while maintaining bright acidity.
The 2020 vintage in the Santa Lucia Highlands experienced a relatively cool growing season, which helped preserve acidity in the grapes. While California faced wildfire challenges in 2020, the Santa Lucia Highlands was largely spared from direct smoke impact due to its coastal location and prevailing wind patterns.
Best served slightly chilled but not too cold (around 50-55°F/10-13°C) to allow full expression of flavors. If stored in a refrigerator, remove 15-20 minutes before serving.
