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2017 Bien Nacido Estate Chardonnay

Not Currently In Auction

Latest Sale Price

May 4, 2025 - $22

Estimate

RATINGS

96Wine Enthusiast

Delicate...laser-focused on the nose, this tremendous bottling from a historic property offers wet chalk and exotic lime aromas. There is a great grip to the tense palate, where a chalky texture delivers flavors of toast, white peach and a light brush of butter. It's clean and crisp yet consequential.

93The Wine Advocate

...very minerally on the nose, with just-ripe aromas of quince, Bosc pear, citrus blossom, baker's yeast and saline plus hazelnut and toasty notions. Medium-bodied, it has a slightly rounded texture, intense fruits and great minerality, supported by tangy acidity and finishing long and textured.

92Vinous / IWC

...soft, creamy and inviting, with tons of near and medium term appeal...especially open-knit. There is good depth to the orchard fruit, tangerine and chamomile flavors...

92Jeb Dunnuck

...racy, juicy effort that has loads of salted citrus, grapefruit, and white flower aromas and flavors. With medium body, good acidity, and a clean, balanced style...

90Wine Spectator

Smoky richness envelops the well-structured pear, apple and ripe tangerine flavors, backed by crisp acidity. Jasmine and honeysuckle notes show on the finish.

REGION

United States, California, South Coast, Santa Barbara County, Santa Maria Valley

Santa Barbara County is not an AVA, but a region just south of San Luis Obispo that includes the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Wine has been produced in the area since the 18th century when Spanish missionaries planted vineyards. It wasn’t until the 1990s, however, that producers focused on growing premier grapes for fine wines. During the 1990s more than 10,000 acres of vineyards were planted, and today there are nearly 20,000 acres of vineyards. The region received a big bump in recognition and prestige when the popular film “Sideways” was shot there in 2004. Because the region is affected by maritime weather, it is relatively cool climate makes it ideal for Chardonnay. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and an increasingly adventuresome number of varietals are also grown successfully in Santa Barbara County.

TYPE

White Wine, Chardonnay

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.

VINTAGE

2017 Bien Nacido Estate Chardonnay