“Winemaker Jonathan Houston picks early, and it shows in his Chardonnay, looking to preserve the acidity and brilliance of the region’s minerality. He hyper-oxidises this and ferments in about 15% new French oak barrels with heavy lees for 11 months. Tons of freshness and linear character with salty and juicy Meyer lemon pulp, Bright, fresh, and jumping with shining citrus fruits, concentrated citrus oils, and a linear mineral finish.”
– 94 Points, Decanter, Clive Pursehouse, March 2026
Tondré Alarid established a vineyard on his family’s historic ranch in Monterey’s Santa Lucia Highlands. In the hands of his son Joe Alarid, the estate has become one of the S.L.H.’s best-known properties. The Highlands’ sparse mountainside soils and windy Monterey Bay-influenced climate produce some of the country’s best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The combination of a perfect site and meticulous farming makes for truly great wines.
The 2024 Sarah’s Vineyard Tondré Grapefield Chardonnay displays enticing aromas and flavors of white flowers, honeysuckle, and bright citrus. Time in the glass offers up flavors of lemon zest, pear, lemon curd, and golden apples with a long finish of spice and vanilla. The balance of bright acidity and just a touch of creaminess from the primarily neutral French oak barrels makes this wine a great match for a chicken and pasta with creamy alfredo or a chilled glass on its own on a warm afternoon.
Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands
Vineyard: Tondré Grapefield
Grower: Joe Alarid
Total Acidity: 13.2
Cooperage: 11 months French oak, 25% new barrels
Production: 114
