Lioco 'Estero' Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, California

A lifted, mineral-driven Chardonnay with notes of lemon bar, loquat, and crushed chalk, the 2023 Lioco 'Estero' Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, California reflects both a meticulous blending philosophy and a reverence for site. Drawing from a curated selection of vineyards and incorporating declassified barrels from top single-vineyard lots, this cuvée represents a deliberate elevation of quality. Founded on a commitment to restrained, site-transparent California wines, Lioco continues to refine its house style through precision and patience.

Product Details:

• Owners: Matt Licklider, Sara Morris
• Winemaker: Drew Huffine
• Variety: Chardonnay
• Alcohol: 13.2%
• pH: 3.3
• Total Acidity: 6.3 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 0.5 g/L
• Brix at Harvest: 21.5
• Production: 525 cases plus 3 magnums
• Harvest Dates: October 6 to October 11, 2023
• Aging: 10 months in neutral oak puncheons plus 6 months in stainless steel
• Fermentation: Native yeast fermentation with full malolactic conversion
• Farming: Low yields of 1 to 4 tons per acre

Sensory Description:

The 2023 vintage opens with bright citrus tones of Meyer lemon and lemon curd layered against loquat and subtle saline chalkiness. The palate is finely structured, showing white tea, citrus pith, and a savory edge reminiscent of cheese rind. A near-perfect growing season marked by cool, even conditions and a late harvest window allowed for extended hang time without excess sugar accumulation, resulting in clarity, tension, and precision. The naturally high acidity, supported by a low pH, drives a persistent, mouthwatering finish, while extended élevage adds quiet depth and textural refinement in a style that leans toward Burgundy-inspired restraint rather than overt richness.

Winemaker’s Background:

Lioco Wine Company was founded by Matt Licklider and Sara Morris with a focus on site-driven California wines produced with minimal intervention. Early champions of balanced, lower-alcohol expressions, they have built long-term relationships with growers farming coastal-influenced vineyards. Winemaker Drew Huffine continues this philosophy through native fermentations, neutral oak usage, and extended aging, emphasizing transparency over manipulation. The Estero bottling represents a synthesis of their vineyard network and a willingness to prioritize quality over economics by blending top-tier lots into a single cuvée.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at 50 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit in a Burgundy stem to highlight aromatic nuance and texture. Pair with brown butter scallops, lemon risotto, or potato gratin, where the wine’s acidity and savory undertones complement richness while enhancing delicate citrus and umami elements.