Melville Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills Clone 76 Inox 2020

92 points Wine & Spirits: "Briny in its salt and lemon flavors, there’s nothing to come between this wine’s fruit and the sea-wrack stink of the Pacific. This is tight, bright and sunny, a wine for steamed clams or mussels—one taster compared it to Muscadet, which is a first for a California chardonnay in our tastings. (Oct 2021)"

91 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2020 Chardonnay Clone 76 Inox is distinctly airy and salty in this vintage. White flowers, almond, citrus and chamomile all grace this exquisite, wonderfully nuanced Chardonnay from Melville. Light, tropical accents linger on the finish. The Inox benefits from that extra kick of heat in 2020 that baked out some of the contours that can be a bit severe. Drink: 2021-2028. (Oct 2021)"

90 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Slightly light hued, the 2020 Chardonnay Clone 76 Inox comes all from a single clone of Chardonnay and was brought up in stainless steel tanks. More white grapefruit and crushed citrus fruits as well as spice and mint emerge on the nose, and it's round, sweetly fruited, and charming on the palate. I always seem to prefer the classic wine, but this is certainly well done in the style. (8/26/21)"

Producer notes: "Vibrant green-gold in color, gorgeous aromatics of lychee, pear skin, raw plantain and kiwi explode up front. In the background, pretty floral nuances of honeysuckle, wisteria and Meyer lemon blossom are also apparent. Bright and lively on the palate, salty tannins and a streak of zippy acidity anchors the wine’s generous and vivacious finish."