2022 Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay 30th Anniversary

Background of Mer Soleil and the Wagner family

Mer Soleil is a project of the Wagner family, known for Caymus Vineyards. Chuck Wagner started Mer Soleil in 1988 in the Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County. His son Charlie further developed this label into a recognized quality brand for Chardonnay. Their mission: to use the unique climate of the region for expressive wines with rich structure and pure fruit aromas.

The Mer Soleil 'Reserve' Chardonnay – 30th Anniversary is a special anniversary edition of the iconic Chardonnay from the Santa Lucia Highlands in California. This wine celebrates thirty years of dedication by the Wagner family – known for Caymus Vineyards, among others – to making premium Chardonnay in a region known for its cool climate and exceptional terroir.

Region, climate and vineyards of Mer Soleil

The vineyards are located in the Santa Lucia Highlands, 40 minutes south of Monterey. The cool microclimate is influenced by morning mist and afternoon breezes from the Pacific Ocean, which promotes extended ripening, retention of acidity and fruit complexity. The soils are composed of sandstone and clay, which contribute minerality and fine texture.

Grapes and vinification of Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay

This Reserve release is a 100% Chardonnay, hand-picked around late September to late October. The wine undergoes barrel fermentation in French oak barrels, with a blend of new and previously used wood. Maturation takes place between 11 and 15 months, partly with malolactic conversion to preserve both creamy structure and fresh acidity.

Color, aroma and flavor profile of Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay

In the glass, the wine has a soft golden yellow with a subtle honey glow. The nose reveals bright citrus aromas such as lime and honey cake, complemented by tropical fruit and notes of coconut, butterscotch and toast. In the mouth, the wine is rich, soft and full. Flavors of pears, Golden Delicious apples, white peach and soft caramel play together with a fresh, almost salty acidity structure. The finish is long, creamy and elegant rather than buttery heavy.

Would you like to order Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay wines online?

This Reserve Chardonnay is in our conditioned Wine Warehouse. If you come to pick up the wine, you will often receive a nice discount; you will see this discount immediately when selecting 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

The full reviews by international wine journalists such as Robert Parker, James Suckling and Vinous can be read via the links next to the wine image on our site. Free service for our customers.

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Wine and food pairings with Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay

• Grilled salmon with lemon-dill sauce – The fresh acidity and citrus accents enhance the delicate fish and herbs.
• Pasta with creamy mushroom cream sauce – The creaminess blends beautifully with the buttery notes in the wine.
• Chicken fillet with thyme and garlic butter – Savory and aromatic, with a structure to match the fresh minerality.
• Risotto with lobster and saffron – Luxurious combination where creamy texture and refined flavours complement the wine.
• Scallops with truffle oil and cauliflower puree – Refined and surprising flavour combination with earthy and creamy notes.
• Goat Cheese, Pear and Walnut Salad – Soft sweet fruit and creaminess are balanced by lively acidity.