Diatom Chardonnay "Bar M Vineyard" 2018

Diatom specializes in only one variety, Chardonnay, and is motivated by the pursuit of subtraction and refinement. Fermented at low temperatures in small stainless-steel tanks, coupled with inhibited malolactic fermentation and short hose transportation, diatom intends to capture Chardonnay in its most raw, carnal state. Winemaker Greg Brewer strives to imbue recognition of place with as little disturbance, distraction or interference as possible. The resulting wines have a sense of transparency and a purity of intent and purpose.

The 2018 Chardonnay Bar-M has an open nose of quince, warm hay, green apple and pear, baker’s yeast, acacia and dried chamomile with white peach and nectarine plus hints of lime peel and crushed stone. Light to medium-bodied, it has a wonderful core of spicy fruit and wicked minerality in the mouth, amplified by juicy freshness and a long, energetic, layered finish.

From a vineyard in the Los Alamos Valley, this bottling by Greg Brewer begins with fresh aromas of passion fruit, citron, lime leaf and wet cement. The palate is tightly wound with slightly sour tones of guava peel, presenting a very fresh, no-oak style that still has plenty of character.