The Best Chardonnay Wines in Anderson Valley: Top Picks for Wine Lovers
Nestled in the heart of Mendocino County, Anderson Valley is a hidden gem renowned for its exceptional Chardonnay. The region's unique microclimate, characterized by cool coastal breezes and foggy mornings, creates the perfect environment for producing world-class wines. In this blog, we'll explore some of the top wineries in Anderson Valley that craft outstanding Chardonnay, each offering a unique expression of this beloved varietal.
These are the Best Anderson Valley Chardonnays:
1. Alma Fria
West Sonoma Coast
Alma Fria is a boutique winery dedicated to producing elegant and expressive wines that reflect the true essence of Anderson Valley. Winemaker Carroll Kemp works with the high-elevation Manchester Ridge Vineyard, producing both still and sparkling Chardonnay from this extraordinary site perched above the valley. These wines are known for their vibrant acidity, mineral-driven profile, and incredible site transparency.
Tasting appointments are available most days, pending availability. Carroll Kemp leads tastings and includes a lineup of 4–5 wines with a curated cheese plate. Duration: 60–75 minutes.
2. Brick & Mortar
25 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Brick & Mortar focuses on crafting wines that showcase the diversity of California's terroirs, with a strong emphasis on Anderson Valley. Their Ferrington Vineyard Chardonnay is a standout wine from one of the region’s most iconic sites.
About Ferrington Vineyard:
Ferrington Vineyard, nestled in the heart of the Anderson Valley AVA just an hour north of Sonoma County, is considered one of the region’s crown jewels. Originally planted in the 1970s, the vineyard features three distinct clones of Chardonnay. Brick & Mortar exclusively uses the Old Wente clone, producing wines of exceptional complexity and depth.
Tasting Notes – 2022 Ferrington Chardonnay:
This wine opens with ripe citrus, white flowers, and toasted hazelnut. On the palate, it offers bright acidity and a rich core of peach, quince, and lemon zest. Layers of roasted almond, savory herbs, and light toast add further dimension, with expert oak integration and a long, elegant finish.
Also try:
2022 Iaconis Chardonnay: A rare, expressive bottling with beautiful lift and texture.
Tastings are available by appointment with either the winemaker or owner in a cozy barrel room or outdoor space. Visits to the winery are available by appointment here.
3. Baxter Winery
8660 Highway 128, Philo, CA 95466
Perched on a coastal ridge-top above Anderson Valley, Baxter Winery is a small, quality-oriented producer specializing in single-vineyard wines. Their Chardonnay is handcrafted using traditional techniques, resulting in a wine that truly reflects its origin.
4. Copain Wines
7800 Eastside Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Copain is a long-time Anderson Valley staple and part of the Jackson Family Wines portfolio. Their Les Voisins Chardonnay is sourced from neighboring vineyards in the valley and delivers freshness, texture, and finesse. A great introduction to the elegance of Anderson Valley Chardonnay.
5. County Line
Made by Eric Sussman
Founded by Eric Sussman (of Radio-Coteau fame), County Line specializes in wines with subtlety and balance. Their Anderson Valley Chardonnay is made with minimal intervention, showcasing vibrant fruit and savory undertones. A cult favorite with a real soul.
6. Domaine Anderson
9201 Highway 128, Philo, CA 95466
Domaine Anderson produces 100% estate-grown wines crafted with precision and minimal intervention. Their Chardonnay, grown organically and Biodynamically®, showcases the unique terroir of Anderson Valley. Their tasting room experience offers elegant and expressive Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the rugged Anderson Valley in a spectacular natural setting.
7. Drew Family Cellars
31351 Philo Greenwood Rd, Elk, CA 95432
Located on the western ridge of Anderson Valley, Drew Family Cellars is an appointment-only winery offering intimate tasting experiences. Their Chardonnay reflects the cool-climate conditions of the region, delivering crisp and nuanced flavors.
8. Lioco Wines
8750 CA-128, Philo, CA 95466
Lioco produces minimalist, terroir-driven wines, and its Anderson Valley Chardonnay program is no exception. They source from vineyards like Skycrest and Demuth, creating wines that are crisp, focused, and full of verve. Lioco is a must for lovers of clean, low-intervention Chardonnay.
9. Littorai Wines
788 Gold Ridge Road, Sebastopol, CA 95472
Littorai is a small, family-owned winery producing world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the true north coast of California. Their wines reflect the originality and genius of each exceptional site. They welcome guests to visit their winery, overlooking 30 stunning acres of rolling hills within the western region of the Sonoma Coast AVA.
10. Maggy Hawk
32075 Hwy 128, Philo, CA 95466
Maggy Hawk is a rising star in Anderson Valley, and winemaker Sarah Wuethrich is crafting beautiful wines from the Skycrest Vineyard. The Skycrest Chardonnay captures the high-elevation energy of the region—zesty, textured, and mineral-rich. A potential new favorite and one to watch.
11. Peay Vineyards
Peay Vineyards is a family-run estate that produces wines with a sense of place. Their Chardonnay is known for its elegance and complexity, reflecting the cool-climate conditions of their vineyard sites.
At the winery, they offer two tasting experiences: Current Release Tasting, which allows guests to experience the breadth of the vibrant expressions of the Peay Estate vineyard. Also, the Library Select Tasting allows you to delve a bit deeper to discover how Peay wines can evolve with time.
12. Read Holland Wines
Read Holland Wines focuses on crafting wines that are expressive and balanced. Their Anderson Valley Chardonnay offers a unique perspective on the varietal, emphasizing purity and finesse. Their fruit is organically farmed by a most talented group of grape growers, also working with small independent growers who live on their vineyards.
Anderson Valley's diverse microclimates and commitment to sustainable practices make it an exceptional region for Chardonnay production. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, exploring these wineries will provide a deeper appreciation for the nuances and complexities of Anderson Valley Chardonnay.