2021 Paul Lato Chardonnay Le Souvenir Sierra Madre Vineyard

About winemaker Paul Lato

Paul Lato is one of California's most respected winemakers, known for his meticulous, artisanal approach. After his career as a sommelier, he decided to make his own wines with the goal of creating wines that combine finesse, depth, and balance. His style is often described as Burgundian-inspired, yet with the energy and intensity of the California coast. In his cellar, everything revolves around detail—low yields, hand harvesting, natural fermentation, and perfect oak balance create wines with precision, tension, and layering.

The Sierra Madre Vineyard

The Le Souvenir Chardonnay comes from the renowned Sierra Madre Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County. This vineyard is located near the ocean, where cool winds and morning mists ensure a long, slow ripening process for the grapes. The subsoil consists of sand, clay, and limestone, which adds freshness and minerality to the fruit. The wine is made from 28-year-old Wente clones, a selection known for its small berries and high aromatic concentration. This combination of age and terroir creates depth and tension—a hallmark of Paul Lato's wines.

Vinification and maturation

The grapes were carefully harvested by hand and gently pressed. The wine underwent full malolactic fermentation, resulting in a creamy texture and harmonious roundness. This was followed by aging for sixteen months in French oak barrels, 50% of which were new. This method allows for a subtly integrated oak note that adds complexity without overpowering the fruit. Only 240 cases of this wine were produced, further enhancing its exclusivity.

Assessment and character

The 2021 Paul Lato Chardonnay Le Souvenir Sierra Madre Vineyard received an impressive 95-point rating from The Wine Advocate . The wine was praised for its layered character and refined balance. On the nose, it reveals aromas of quince, peach, and burnt lemon peel, complemented by notes of beeswax, hazelnut, panna cotta, and a subtle hint of flint. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and concentrated, with a silky texture and wonderful tension thanks to lively acidity. The palate is intense and broad, with complex layers of ripe fruit, spicy oak notes, and a long, decadent finish. This wine demands attention, yet promises pure seduction with every sip.

Color, smell and taste

The wine has a deep golden yellow color with brilliant reflections. The nose is opulent and refined, with notes of ripe peach, burnt lemon, honey, and toasted nuts. The palate unfolds an impressive combination of creaminess, vibrancy, and length. The structure is full and layered, but never heavy – the freshness keeps everything perfectly balanced. The finish is long, slightly spicy, and elegant, with a subtle smoky accent that gives the wine extra depth.

Would you like to order Paul Lato wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pickup" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings

• Lobster with vanilla butter – the creamy texture of the wine complements the rich sauce and the sweetness of the lobster perfectly.
• Scallops with cauliflower cream – the refined acidity brings freshness and balance to this elegant dish.
• Roast chicken with truffle jus – the wine's rich, nutty notes enhance the dish's earthy flavours.
• Mushroom and Parmesan risotto – the creaminess and umami notes resonate with the rich structure of the wine.
• Sea bass with beurre blanc and lemon – the freshness of the wine keeps everything lively and precise.
• Roasted cauliflower with hazelnut oil – the earthy and nutty notes complement the wine's aromatic complexity beautifully.