Roar 2024 Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands

94 Points — Jeb Dunnuck | 94 Points & Editors’ Choice — Wine Enthusiast

Outstanding Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay from ROAR

The ROAR 2024 Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands brings together fruit from three of the winery’s acclaimed vineyard sites—Rosella’s, Soberanes and Sierra Mar—to create a rich yet beautifully balanced expression of cool-climate California Chardonnay.

This is ROAR’s appellation Chardonnay, but don't mistake it for an entry-level wine. The 2024 earned 94 Points from Jeb Dunnuck and 94 Points & Editors’ Choice from Wine Enthusiast, with the latter noting that this appellation blend competes with ROAR’s more expensive single-vineyard wines.

94 Points — Jeb Dunnuck: "Warm, concentrated flavors and ample oak make for a full-flavored Roar 2024 Chardonnay, a barrel-selection of vineyard-designates. A fine-tuned cuvée from Soberanes, Rosella’s, and Sierra Mar, the wine was barrel-fermented before spending 14 months in 37% new French oak, the oak adding structure and spice to the full-bodied richness and concentration of orchard fruit and brioche. Drink now through 2032."

94 Points & Editors’ Choice — Wine Enthusiast:  "A compelling combination of peach, white flowers and pastry notes leads to a bright, energetic palate with creamy stone-fruit character and refreshing acidity."

A Blend of Three Acclaimed ROAR Vineyards

The 2024 Chardonnay combines fruit from Rosella’s, Soberanes and Sierra Mar, bringing together distinctive vineyard sites from across the Santa Lucia Highlands.

The region’s abundant sunshine is moderated by the powerful cooling influence of Monterey Bay. Persistent afternoon winds slow ripening and extend the growing season, allowing Chardonnay to develop impressive flavor and texture while maintaining vibrant natural acidity.

Winemaker Scott Shapley barrel-fermented the 2024 Chardonnay and aged it for 14 months in French oak, 37% new. The result is a generous yet balanced Chardonnay with orchard and tropical fruit, citrus, floral notes, subtle cream and a fresh saline finish.

Founded by longtime growers Gary and Rosella Franscioni, ROAR remains a family-run producer focused on showcasing the distinctive vineyards and terroir of the Santa Lucia Highlands.

A 94-point Editors’ Choice Chardonnay that delivers much of the character of ROAR’s coveted single-vineyard wines at a more approachable price.