Alcohol: 12.4%
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Localization: Anderson Valley, Mendocino, California, USA
Tasting Notes: Poised from the outset, the SeaBed Estate Chardonnay opens with high-toned notes of fresh yuzu and mandarin zest, accented by hints of honeysuckle, fragrant white blossoms, and a delicate saline edge. Like ocean waves, there’s a palpable energy, with crackling acidity held in tension with layered, nuanced fruit and a fine chalky texture. The finish is delectably prolonged, with a gentle touch of wood tannin and a lingering minerality that underscores the refinement and staying power of this cool, coastal gem.
96 points Vinous: “The Chardonnay Estate SeaBed is laced with the essence of crushed rocks, graphite, dried herbs, chamomile and chalk. The SeaBed is always the most mineral and phenolic of the Radio-Coteau Chardonnays. Even with its large-scaled intensity and explosiveness, the 2019 retains striking transparency. It’s one of the most memorable wines I have ever tasted from Radio-Coteau.”–Antonio Galloni
Notes: Harvested on October 5th, the blocks comprising the SeaBed Chardonnay ripened steadily amidst the cooler growing season, maintaining vibrancy and fruit clarity. Élevage in 25% new tight-grained French oak, followed by two months in stainless steel, framed the depth of fruit character while sustaining its mineral-driven spine and characteristic salinity.
The Domain: Eric Sussman first heard the expression radio coteau from a friend while living and working in Burgundy. More than a preference for how you discover these wines, the name reflects a commitment to capturing reflections of soil, seasons, people and place. In 2002, Eric established Radio-Coteau, focusing on the north coast vineyards of western Sonoma County and Anderson Valley. With their benchland locations, well-drained soils, exposure by capricious marine air and fog, these sites host grapes naturally suited to their surrounding elements. This natural selection afforded Eric an opportunity to refine his Old World experiences while working with New World grapes. For more than a decade, he has strived to balance nature’s expression with a delicate, but disciplined human touch in these handcrafted wines.
