Diatom Santa Barbara Chardonnay

Diatom is the Chardonnay-focused project of acclaimed Santa Barbara winemaker Greg Brewer, best known as the co-founder and winemaker of Brewer-Clifton. The philosophy behind Diatom is deliberately minimalist: Chardonnay is presented with as little winemaking influence as possible, allowing the fruit, climate, and site to take centre stage.

The Santa Barbara County Chardonnay is made from 100% Chardonnay, with recent vintages sourced from Mission Hills in Los Alamos. What truly sets Diatom apart is its winemaking. Rather than relying on barrel fermentation, new oak, or a buttery style, the Chardonnay is fermented and matured in stainless steel, with malolactic fermentation inhibited to retain its natural acidity and precision.

Tasting Notes
Colour: Pale to medium straw-gold with brilliant clarity.

Nose: Bright aromas of lemon, citrus blossom, pear, and white flowers are complemented by intriguing notes of wet stone, sea spray, and subtle tropical fruit.

Palate: Crisp and energetic, with flavours of white peach, lemon, lime zest, ripe pear, and pomelo. The wine develops surprising weight and texture in the glass, balanced by taut acidity and pronounced saline minerality.

Finish: Long, clean, and distinctly mineral, with lingering citrus zest, orchard fruit, subtle herbs, and an appetizing sea-salt character.