Scar of the Sea 'Vino de Los Ranchos' Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley, California

The 2023 Scar of the Sea Vino de Los Ranchos Chardonnay is a striking expression of Santa Maria Valley terroir, balancing freshness, texture, and purity. Sourced from old vine Chardonnay planted in 1973 at Rancho Viñedo and younger vines at Rancho Ontiveros Vineyard, this bottling captures the coastal influence of fog and sea breezes that define the region’s cool-climate wines. With minimal intervention in the cellar, the result is a wine that speaks clearly of its origin and vintage.

Product Details:

• Winemakers & Owners: Mikey & Gina Giugni
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Farming Practices: Organic (not certified)
• Fermentation & Aging: Whole cluster pressed, native yeast fermentation in neutral French oak; aged on lees for 19 months; bottled unfined and unfiltered with minimal sulfur
• Alcohol: 12.5%
• Production: 576 cases

Sensory Description:

On the nose, this Chardonnay reveals aromas of oatmeal, lemon meringue, and fresh lime juice, interwoven with a subtle mineral edge from sandstone and river silt soils. The palate offers texture and energy in equal measure, orchard fruits, citrus, and a whisper of sea spray framed by bright acidity and a saline twist. Its long lees aging adds depth and creaminess without masking the vibrant freshness.

Winemaker's Background:

Scar of the Sea was founded in 2012 by winemaker Mikey Giugni, who draws inspiration from the Pacific Ocean’s daily influence on the vineyards of Santa Maria Valley and the San Luis Obispo coast. Working with sustainably farmed and organically tended vineyards, many of them older plantings from the 1970s, Mikey employs a minimal-intervention approach, using native yeasts, neutral oak, and little to no fining or filtration. His philosophy is rooted in letting each vintage and site tell its story through the wine.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at 50–54 °F (10–12 °C) to highlight its citrus-driven vibrancy and minerality. This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with roast chicken, grilled white fish, stinky cheeses, or creamy pasta dishes. Its balance of freshness and texture also makes it a compelling aperitif.

This is a California Chardonnay that marries richness with restraint, offering authenticity and terroir-driven character at every sip. With limited production and fruit sourced from historic vineyards, it’s a bottle that overdelivers and reflects the best of the Santa Maria Valley.