2023 Sphaerics ‘If and Only If’ Chardonnay Alexander Valley

WSI94 WS94 Elegant and powerful, this intense white opens with a flinty note before giving way to litsea oil, fresh tarragon and grilled peach. The creamy texture and fresh thread of acidity provide a profound background for orange blossoms and toasted, salted almond. There’s a touch of lime sherbet on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2037. 200 cases made.
Estate Notes: The 2023 “if and only if” unwinds in the glass with seductive aromas of lemon oil, chamomile tea, creme brulée, and almond croissant accentuated with alluring notes of candied ginger and flint. Concentrated and persistent with opulent layers of orchard fruits, the satiny palate is punctuated by mineral sparks and framed by a crystalline quality on the long, savory finish. This wine is elegant yet penetrating with incredible tension and exquisite poise. Patience will be rewarded with extended cellaring.
Site: When we were offered incredible access to Chardonnay from the legendary Upper Barn Vineyard, we couldn’t say yes fast enough. Sourced from 40-year-old vines planted to a distinctive Wente clone 1800 feet above Alexander Valley, the “if and only if” Chardonnay is a seamless expression of this spectacular site captured through adherence to classical winemaking techniques. (Where early Marcassin and Peter Michael sourced its Chardonnay initially).