Fess Parker’s 2023 Ashley’s Chardonnay is a broad, flavorful Sta. Rita Hills white centered on yellow apple, lemon and light toast. Barrel fermentation adds breadth and a smooth texture, while fresh acidity keeps the palate from becoming weighty. The wine finishes cleanly, with citrus brightness returning after its richer mid-palate.
- Varietal
- Chardonnay
- Region
- USA / California / Santa Barbara County / Sta. Rita Hills
- Body
- Medium
- Style
- dry white, oak-aged, cool-climate
The producer
Fess Parker bought a 714-acre Foxen Canyon ranch in 1988 and established the family winery the following year; his children Eli Parker and Ashley Parker Snider now steward it. Ashley’s Vineyard, named for his daughter, lies 12 miles from the Pacific in Sta. Rita Hills, on sandy, low-vigor soils.
What critics say
Wine Enthusiast’s Matt Kettmann awarded the 2023 Ashley’s Chardonnay 94 points after a blind tasting. He found brioche, baked lemon and lemon blossom on the nose, followed by a stony palate marked by lemon granita and ginger.
Pairing
Recommended with: Linguine White Mexican Shrimp; Salmon Lemoni; or Spanakopita.