Three Sticks Durell Vineyard Chardonnay 2023 White Wine

Three Sticks Durell Vineyard Chardonnay 2023 

Sonoma Coast, CA

750 ml

Silky mouthfeel with lemon poundcake up front, gives way to lively acidity. A home run!

In 2023, Wine Spectator named Durell one of the “Best of California” Chardonnay vineyards.

96 pts. The Tasting Panel:

"The Three Sticks label’s origin story is from the Durell Vineyard, its cool breezes off the Pacific and layers of fog influencing — and elevating - its stature. Aged in 100% French oak (21% new) for 14 months with 100% malolactic fermentation; and thanks to its natural acidity, the buttery influence of the ML is evened out. Nutmeg laces through lemon meringue, with a flocking of vanilla-dusted white flower petals. Pinpoint acidity continues to be reflected in the wine’s fresh factor, with dots of salinity accenting pear and Golden apple."

94 pts. James Suckling:

“A broad, opulent wine framed by acidity and oak structure. On the nose, lemon curd, creme brulee, pears and baking spices. The rich texture has mouthwatering acidity and a long finish. Full-bodied. Drink or hold.”  

93 pts. Wine Spectator:

"Intense, aromatic and vibrant, with a core of lemon curd and lime sherbet, plus seamless, mouthwatering details of citron, white peach and lemon verbena that show crushed rock minerality. Comes together in harmony on the long, impressive finish, where accents of ginger and shortbread linger. Drink now. 665 cases made."

FROM THE WINERY

VINEYARD

The story of Three Sticks began at Durell Vineyard, a cornerstone of Sonoma winemaking and one of the region’s most diverse sites. Located on the western edge of Sonoma, this expansive property encompasses the Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Coast, and Carneros AVAs, benefiting from volcanic soils and the cooling influence of the Pacific Ocean and San Pablo Bay. Durell’s Chardonnay stands out for its depth, focus, and distinctly vibrant character.

VINTAGE

The 2023 vintage was defined by a wet winter, cool summer, long ripening, and stellar-quality fruit. Much-needed winter rains replenished Sonoma County’s soils and aquifers through early spring, followed by intermittent frost that caused some stunting and uneven growth, though significant damage was avoided. A late but beautiful spring saw grapevines flourish on a delayed schedule. Summer remained cool, slowing maturation despite good fruit set and crop load, while the season ended with cycles of 90+ degree heat and measurable rain over four weeks. Careful canopy management and fruit thinning extended harvest into late October, ultimately yielding exceptional fruit that transformed weather challenges into opportunities for quality.

TASTING NOTES

On the nose, the 2023 vintage opens with aromas of lemon curd, stone fruit, and buttery croissants, leading into flavors of shortbread with a smooth, well-integrated oak profile. It leaves a lasting impression, showcasing richness and bright energy.

CLONES  Wente, Hyde

FERMENTATION  French Oak, 22 days, 100% French Oak; 21% New

100% MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION

BARREL AGING 14 Months

ALCOHOL CONTENT 13.7%

TOTAL ACIDITY 6.0 g/L

PH 3.32

PRODUCTION 665 Cases