91 Points, Wine Enthusiast
91 Points, Vinous
The 2023 Chardonnay Tondré Grapefield is meaningfully better than the 2022 tasted last year, a testament to both a more favorable growing season and improvements that Jonathan Houston is making in the winery. Sweet orchard fruit, toasted hazelnut and mint expand as the 2023 sweeps across the palate. The nicely detailed finish is a bonus. Well done. - Billy Norris, July 2025
Tondré Alarid established a vineyard on his family’s historic ranch in Monterey’s Santa Lucia Highlands. In the hands of his son Joe Alarid, the estate has become one of the S.L.H.’s best known properties. The Highlands’ sparse mountainside soils and windy Monterey Bay-influenced climate produce some of the country’s best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The combination of a perfect site and meticulous farming makes for truly great wines.
The 2023 Sarah’s Vineyard Tondré Grapefield Chardonnay displays enticing aromas and flavors of white flowers and bright citrus. Time in the glass offers up flavors of lemon zest, pear, lemon curd, and pastry crust with a long finish of spice and vanilla. The balance of bright acidity and just a touch of creaminess from the primarily neutral French oak barrels make this wine a great match for our recipe for Sarah’s Jambalaya.
Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands
Vineyard: Tondré Grapefield
Grower: Joe Alarid
Alcohol: 13.6
Cooperage: French oak, 25% new, 11 months
Production: 150
