{"title":"Ojai","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"ojai-rose","title":"Ojai Rose","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOjai Rosé\u003c\/strong\u003e is a barrel-fermented rosé from The Ojai Vineyard in Santa Barbara County, California, available in a standard 750ml bottle. What distinguishes this wine from the vast majority of rosés on the market is its fermentation and aging in neutral French oak — a deliberate choice by winemaker Adam Tolmach that builds richness and textural depth rarely found in the category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: Not published  |  Origin: Santa Barbara County, California  |  Style: Multi-Vineyard Barrel-Fermented Rosé  |  Producer: The Ojai Vineyard\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Ojai Vineyard, led by winemaker Adam Tolmach, sources from several distinguished Santa Barbara County sites for this rosé: 51% Syrah from Roll Ranch in Ojai, 21% Carignan from Camp 4 in Santa Ynez, 19% Grenache from John Sebastiano Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills, and 9% Riesling from Kick On Ranch near Los Alamos. The fruit undergoes whole cluster pressing before moving entirely to neutral French oak barrels for fermentation and five months of aging. As Tolmach has noted, he considers himself a traditionalist who prefers the richness that barrel fermentation confers — a stark departure from the stainless steel tanks used for most commercial rosé production.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with stone fruit and citrus flower, followed by ripe strawberry and a thread of salted orange peel. There is a quiet mineral undertone that adds complexity beyond simple fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is fresh and medium-bodied, with tangerine and tart citrus hitting the mid-palate alongside red fruit. The barrel aging shows itself not as overt oak flavor but as a broader, rounder mouthfeel — a subtle creaminess that separates this from leaner stainless steel rosés. Balanced, refreshing acidity keeps the wine lively throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish lingers with salty minerality, a trace of spice, and a citrus brightness that slowly fades. It is moderate in length but clean and precise, inviting another sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Ojai Rosé\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe well-chilled at around 45–50°F. This rosé is structured enough to stand on its own as a sipping wine, though a slight chill emphasizes its freshness. For cocktails, the Ojai Rosé works in a \u003cstrong\u003eFrosé\u003c\/strong\u003e, where its barrel-derived body prevents the wine from becoming too thin once frozen and blended. It also suits a \u003cstrong\u003eFrench Spring Punch\u003c\/strong\u003e — combined with elderflower liqueur and sparkling water — where the citrus and stone fruit notes amplify the floral element. A simple \u003cstrong\u003eRosé Spritz\u003c\/strong\u003e with a splash of Aperol and prosecco allows the wine's minerality to cut through the bittersweet aperitif.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSummer dinner parties where a rosé with genuine complexity will surprise guests\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to wine enthusiasts who appreciate small-producer, terroir-driven wines\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with Mediterranean or California-coastal cuisine\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExploring Santa Barbara County wines beyond Pinot Noir and Chardonnay\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Ojai Rosé taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ojai Rosé delivers ripe strawberry, tangerine, and tart citrus with a medium-bodied, rounded texture from barrel fermentation, finishing with salty minerality and a whisper of spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Ojai Rosé compare to stainless steel-fermented rosés?\u003c\/strong\u003e Most rosés are fermented and held in stainless steel, producing a leaner, crisper profile, while The Ojai Vineyard's decision to barrel-ferment and age in neutral French oak for five months gives this wine a noticeably broader mouthfeel and textural richness without overt oak flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Ojai Rosé good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the barrel-fermented structure and multi-vineyard complexity make it a rosé designed for attentive drinking rather than simple poolside refreshment, though it remains highly refreshing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Ojai Rosé made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is produced by The Ojai Vineyard in Ojai, California, using fruit sourced from multiple vineyards across Santa Barbara County, including sites in the Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Rita Hills, and the Los Alamos area.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Ojai Rosé?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled shrimp with lemon and herbs, where the wine's citrus and minerality mirror the dish; charcuterie boards featuring cured salami and aged cheeses, which complement the wine's body; Niçoise salad, whose briny olives and tuna echo the salty finish; roasted chicken with Provençal seasonings; and fresh goat cheese, which highlights the rosé's acidity and fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Ojai Rosé come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The Ojai Vineyard Rosé is available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Ojai Rosé worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ojai Rosé positions as a premium, small-production rosé well above entry-level offerings; the barrel fermentation, multi-vineyard sourcing from named Santa Barbara County sites, and Adam Tolmach's reputation justify its place in the upper tier of California rosé.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Ojai Rosé?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBarrel-fermented rosé remains genuinely uncommon. While the vast majority of producers opt for stainless steel to preserve brightness and reduce cost, Adam Tolmach deliberately sends every drop of this rosé to neutral French oak, prioritizing texture and depth. The four-grape blend — anchored by Syrah and supported by Carignan, Grenache, and a small proportion of Riesling — draws from some of Santa Barbara County's most respected vineyard sites, giving the wine a specificity of place that generic rosés simply cannot match. For anyone seeking a rosé that rewards the same attention typically reserved for serious white or red wines, this bottling delivers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ojai","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837381832873,"sku":"23492","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Ojai-Rose__04030.jpg?v=1730480524"},{"product_id":"ojai-syrah-santa-barbara-2013","title":"Ojai Syrah Santa Barbara 2016","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOjai Syrah Santa Barbara 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Syrah-based red blend from The Ojai Vineyard in Santa Barbara County, bottled at 13.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. Awarded 92 points by Jeb Dunnuck, who described it as a \"rounded, fruit-forward, fleshy beauty,\" this limited-production wine—just 1,429 cases—draws from some of northern Santa Barbara County's most distinguished cool-climate vineyard sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: Santa Barbara County, California  |  Vintage: 2016  |  Producer: The Ojai Vineyard\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Ojai Vineyard, founded in 1983 by Adam Tolmach in the Ojai Valley of Ventura County, has long championed Rhône varieties grown in California's cooler coastal zones. The 2016 Santa Barbara County bottling is a field blend of 50% John Sebastiano Syrah, 25% Roll Ranch Syrah, 22% Grenache from John Sebastiano, and 3% Sangiovese from White Hawk Vineyard, fermented with 30% whole clusters and aged in new French oak. These vineyard sites—including Bien Nacido-adjacent parcels—sit on steep, wind-blasted slopes in the fog-cooled corridor of northern Santa Barbara County, a region frequently compared to France's northern Rhône Valley for its ability to produce savory, structured Syrah.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with elegant, perfumed notes of blue fruit and violets, followed by layers of peppery herbs and a subtle mineral undertone. There is a gamey, tobacco-laced quality that deepens as the wine breathes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On entry, the palate is fresh and light on its feet, with ripe blueberry and dark plum fruit meeting earthy, savory tones at the mid-palate. The Grenache and Sangiovese components add a fleshy roundness and subtle red-fruit lift, while the whole-cluster fermentation contributes a mid-weight, textural grip without dominating the flavor profile. Antonio Galloni of Vinous praised the 2016 as \"beautifully nuanced from start to finish.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is medium-long with lingering cracked pepper, dried herbs, and a fine mineral thread. It leaves the palate feeling quenched rather than heavy, a hallmark of the cool-climate provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Ojai Syrah\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis wine is best served slightly below room temperature, around 60–64°F, in a large-bowled glass that allows the aromatics to fully expand. A brief 30-minute decant opens the perfumed violet and blue-fruit character. While primarily a wine to enjoy on its own or alongside a meal, its medium weight and savory profile make it versatile: pair it with braised lamb shoulder where the pepper and herb notes mirror the dish's seasonings, grilled duck breast to complement the wine's gamey undertones, or a charcuterie board featuring saucisson sec and aged Gruyère to echo its earthy complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCollectors seeking limited-production California Syrah from benchmark cool-climate vineyards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a Rhône-variety enthusiast who appreciates restraint over power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA fall or winter dinner party centerpiece alongside roasted or braised meats\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExploring the 2016 Santa Barbara County vintage, widely regarded as a strong year for the region\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Ojai Syrah 2016 taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It delivers a savory, medium-bodied profile of blue fruits, cracked pepper, violets, and tobacco, with an earthy mineral finish rather than heavy oak or jammy sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Ojai Syrah compare to Fess Parker Santa Barbara County Syrah?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are Santa Barbara County Syrahs, but the Ojai tends toward a lighter, more Rhône-inflected style with whole-cluster fermentation and a multi-vineyard blend that includes Grenache and Sangiovese, while Fess Parker generally offers a fuller-bodied, more fruit-driven expression of the variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Ojai Syrah 2016 good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Absolutely—its mid-weight structure, aromatic complexity, and refreshing acidity make it an engaging wine to drink neat, especially with a short decant to open the perfumed aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Ojai Syrah made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is produced by The Ojai Vineyard, founded in 1983 in Ojai, Ventura County, California, using Syrah and Grenache grapes sourced from Roll Ranch, John Sebastiano, and White Hawk vineyards in the cool-climate corridor of northern Santa Barbara County.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Ojai Syrah 2016?\u003c\/strong\u003e Braised lamb shanks mirror its herbal, peppery character; grilled duck breast complements its gamey undertones; pork rillettes echo the wine's savory earthiness; aged hard cheeses like Comté match its mineral finish; and roasted root vegetables with rosemary align with its herbal aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Ojai Syrah come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is a 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Ojai Syrah 2016 worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Positioned in the mid-premium tier for California Syrah, the 2016 offers strong critical backing—92 points from Jeb Dunnuck and a 90-point Wine-Searcher critics average—along with limited availability at only 1,429 cases produced, representing solid value for wines of this quality and scarcity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Ojai Syrah 2016?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat distinguishes this bottling is the convergence of site, technique, and restraint. The northern Santa Barbara County vineyards—John Sebastiano, Roll Ranch, White Hawk—are steep, wind-exposed, and fog-cooled, conditions that produce Syrah with the aromatic intensity and savory depth more commonly associated with Côte-Rôtie or Saint-Joseph than with California. The 30% whole-cluster inclusion adds structural complexity without overwhelming the fruit, and the small-lot production of 1,429 cases ensures careful attention at every stage. With 92 points from Jeb Dunnuck and praise from Antonio Galloni for its nuance, this 2016 earns its place among the most compelling cool-climate Syrahs produced in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ojai","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837401723049,"sku":"20889","price":28.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Ojai-Syrah-Santa-Barbara__44203.jpg?v=1730481046"},{"product_id":"ojai-sauvignon-blanc-mcginley-vineyard","title":"Ojai Sauvignon Blanc McGinley Vineyard","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOjai Sauvignon Blanc McGinley Vineyard\u003c\/strong\u003e is a barrel-fermented, Loire-inspired California Sauvignon Blanc from Santa Ynez Valley at 13% ABV in a 750ml bottle. The 2018 vintage earned 91 points from Wine Advocate, which praised its \"lovely, understated style,\" and Jeb Dunnuck awarded the 2016 vintage 91 points, calling it \"clean, impeccably balanced, and pure.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13%  |  Origin: Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, California  |  100% Sauvignon Blanc  |  Winery: The Ojai Vineyard\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Ojai Vineyard has built a devoted following for wines that prioritize site expression over winemaking artifice, and the McGinley Vineyard bottling is a prime example. McGinley's soils are remarkably poor — many sections have only a foot and a half of topsoil over fractured shale, with one block sitting on serpentine rock. That lack of vigor forces the Sauvignon Blanc vines to concentrate their energy on ripening fruit rather than producing canopy, yielding intensely flavored grapes from low yields. Unlike the vast majority of Sauvignon Blanc produced in stainless steel tanks, this wine is fermented and aged in neutral French oak barrels for seven months on the lees with periodic stirring. Malolactic fermentation is deliberately blocked to preserve acidity and freshness, while the exclusive use of neutral barrels ensures no new-oak flavors mask the vineyard's distinctive mineral character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Restrained and layered, opening with poached pear, citrus blossom, and white flowers. Underneath, green herbs and crushed stone add a Loire-like nerviness that signals the wine's mineral backbone.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is bright and crunchy with green melon and Asian pear, then broadens at mid-palate into quince, Meyer lemon, and passion fruit. A chalky, almost saline minerality weaves through the fruit, while the lees aging provides a subtle textural roundness without any heaviness. Grapefruit rind and fresh mint lend vibrancy through the middle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-long with lingering lime zest, smoky minerals, and a faint herbal echo. The finish stays taut and clean, rewarding each sip with precision rather than sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Ojai McGinley Sauvignon Blanc\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis wine is best served chilled to around 50°F, where its mineral and citrus aromatics open up fully. It rewards careful attention neat in a white wine glass but is also versatile enough for food-forward drinking. A \u003cstrong\u003eclassic Spritz\u003c\/strong\u003e variation using this wine as the base adds herbal depth beyond a typical prosecco version. It performs beautifully in a \u003cstrong\u003eWhite Wine Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e with stone fruits and fresh herbs, where its textural weight and citrus notes amplify the other ingredients. For something simple, a \u003cstrong\u003eHugo Cocktail\u003c\/strong\u003e — elderflower, mint, and sparkling water — plays naturally off the wine's existing green herb and floral character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a wine enthusiast who appreciates Old World style from a California producer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA seafood dinner party centerpiece, especially with shellfish or crudo courses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExploring California's alternative Sauvignon Blanc movement beyond tank-fermented styles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSummer evening sipping where you want complexity without heaviness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Ojai McGinley Sauvignon Blanc taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It leads with crunchy green melon, Asian pear, and Meyer lemon, layered over a chalky mineral core from the vineyard's shale and serpentine soils. The barrel aging adds subtle textural roundness, but the blocked malolactic fermentation keeps the profile bright and citrus-driven.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Ojai McGinley Sauvignon Blanc compare to Sancerre?\u003c\/strong\u003e The winemaker has explicitly cited Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc as inspiration, and critics have described this wine as \"very reminiscent of the Loire Valley style\" due to its herbal nerviness and mineral spine. The key difference is a slightly rounder mid-palate from the warmer Santa Ynez Valley climate and seven months of lees contact, giving it a touch more tropical fruit than a typical Sancerre.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Ojai McGinley Sauvignon Blanc good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Absolutely — this is a wine designed for attentive drinking, with layered aromatics and a mineral-driven palate that reward contemplation rather than casual gulping. Serve it slightly chilled in a proper wine glass to get the full aromatic experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Ojai McGinley Sauvignon Blanc made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is produced by The Ojai Vineyard from fruit grown at McGinley Vineyard in the Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, California. The vineyard's distinctive poor soils — fractured shale and serpentine rock beneath thin topsoil — are central to the wine's mineral character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Ojai McGinley Sauvignon Blanc?\u003c\/strong\u003e Raw oysters and shellfish play off the wine's saline minerality. Grilled branzino or halibut with herb butter complements its green herb and citrus notes. Chèvre or aged goat cheese echoes the chalky texture. A citrus-dressed crab salad mirrors the Meyer lemon flavors. Dishes with fresh tarragon or dill amplify the herbal aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Ojai McGinley Sauvignon Blanc come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Ojai McGinley Sauvignon Blanc worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e This positions as a premium single-vineyard Sauvignon Blanc from a small-production California winery — typically around 574 cases for a given vintage. For the level of site specificity, the artisanal barrel-fermentation approach, and consistent 90+ point critical scores, it represents strong value within the boutique California white wine category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Ojai McGinley Sauvignon Blanc?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn a market flooded with bright, simple, tank-fermented Sauvignon Blancs, this wine takes a fundamentally different approach. The McGinley Vineyard's fractured shale and serpentine soils — with barely a foot and a half of topsoil — force low vigor and intense fruit concentration that most California vineyards simply cannot replicate. Neutral French oak barrel fermentation and extended lees contact add textural depth without introducing any oak flavor, preserving the vineyard's voice rather than the winemaker's. With consistent 91-point scores from both Wine Advocate and Jeb Dunnuck, this is one of California's most compelling arguments that Sauvignon Blanc can be a serious, age-worthy, terroir-driven wine.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ojai","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837448876201,"sku":"22022","price":26.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Ojai-Sauvignon-Blanc-McGinley-Vineyard__43774.jpg?v=1730482575"},{"product_id":"ojai-chardonnay","title":"Ojai Chardonnay","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOjai Chardonnay\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 750ml, 13% ABV single-vineyard California Chardonnay from The Ojai Vineyard, sourced from Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley. Scored 94 points by Jeb Dunnuck, this bottling reflects over three decades of winemaker Adam Tolmach's dedication to one of California's most storied vineyard sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13%  |  Origin: Santa Maria Valley, Central Coast, California  |  100% Chardonnay  |  Winery: The Ojai Vineyard\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Ojai Vineyard, founded by Adam Tolmach, has sourced Chardonnay from the same section of Bien Nacido Vineyard's I-block since 1988 — a relationship sustained through hands-on acreage contracts rather than the more common tonnage agreements. The fruit is barrel fermented in neutral French oak, a deliberate shift Tolmach made around 2000 after concluding that new barrels \"clouded the soul of this site.\" The result is a more transparent, mineral-driven expression that prioritizes vineyard character over winemaking influence — closer in philosophy to white Burgundy than to mainstream California Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean and floral at first pass, opening into scents of apple, peach blossom and crushed white rocks. Deeper in the glass, light honey and brioche notes emerge alongside streaks of marmalade and fresh pineapple.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e A crisp, focused entry gives way to rounder mid-palate textures carrying flavors of poached pear, Meyer lemon curd and salted pineapple. Bright acidity threads through the palate, keeping the wine taut and energetic despite its full, elegant body. Spice notes and a distinct salinity add complexity at the peak.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is lively and persistent, ebbing back into minerals and citrusy verve. A clean, lemon-tinged salinity lingers, reinforcing the wine's restrained, site-driven character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Ojai Chardonnay\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis Chardonnay rewards attention — serve it slightly cool, around 55°F, in a wide-bowled glass to let the aromatics open fully. It stands confidently on its own but also works in food-forward settings. A \u003cstrong\u003eFrench 75\u003c\/strong\u003e substituting this wine for Champagne leverages its bright acidity and floral lift. A \u003cstrong\u003eWhite Wine Spritzer\u003c\/strong\u003e highlights the minerality and pear notes without overwhelming them. For something unconventional, its lemon curd richness and salinity make it a compelling base in a \u003cstrong\u003eWine Margarita\u003c\/strong\u003e riff with citrus and a salted rim.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a wine lover who appreciates restrained, Old World-style California whites\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with a refined seafood dinner at home\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdding depth to a curated Chardonnay tasting spanning Burgundian and Californian styles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCelebrating a milestone with a critically acclaimed single-vineyard wine\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Ojai Chardonnay taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ojai Chardonnay is a restrained, mineral-driven white wine with dominant flavors of Meyer lemon curd, poached pear and salted pineapple, supported by bright acidity and a floral, brioche-laced aromatic profile. It drinks more like a white Burgundy than a typical California Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Ojai Chardonnay compare to Au Bon Climat Chardonnay?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both wines source fruit from Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley and share a Burgundian philosophy, but Ojai Chardonnay ferments exclusively in neutral French oak, yielding a leaner, more mineral-focused profile. Au Bon Climat tends to show slightly more oak influence and a broader palate texture by comparison.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Ojai Chardonnay good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Absolutely — its layered aromatics, bright acidity and long mineral finish make it an exceptional wine for contemplative sipping on its own. Serving it slightly cool allows the full progression of flavors to unfold.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Ojai Chardonnay made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ojai Chardonnay is produced by The Ojai Vineyard, based in Ojai, California, using 100% Chardonnay grapes from Bien Nacido Vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley AVA on California's Central Coast.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Ojai Chardonnay?\u003c\/strong\u003e Roasted halibut with lemon butter complements the wine's citrus and mineral notes. Grilled lobster tail echoes its salinity and richness. Aged Comté cheese mirrors the brioche and honey aromatics. A shaved fennel and pear salad picks up on the wine's fruit and herbal freshness. Chicken with a light tarragon cream sauce balances the wine's acidity and weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Ojai Chardonnay come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ojai Chardonnay is available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Ojai Chardonnay worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ojai Chardonnay positions as a premium single-vineyard expression within the California Chardonnay category, and its 94-point score from Jeb Dunnuck, three-decade vineyard relationship and site-specific winemaking philosophy provide strong justification for its price tier relative to peers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Ojai Chardonnay?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat separates this wine from the broader California Chardonnay landscape is Adam Tolmach's 35-plus-year commitment to a single block within Bien Nacido Vineyard — one of the Central Coast's most celebrated sites. The deliberate move away from new oak toward neutral barrels stripped away the winemaking veneer and let the vineyard's mineral-rich, cool-climate character lead. That decision, validated by a 94-point score from Jeb Dunnuck and Antonio Galloni calling it \"fabulous,\" places this among the most transparent expressions of Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay available. For anyone seeking a California white that prizes restraint and site identity over power and oak, this bottling delivers genuine distinctiveness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ojai","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837529747625,"sku":"23491","price":24.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Ojai-Chardonnay__75344.jpg?v=1730485503"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/ojai.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}