Gavin Chanin is one of the superstars of Santa Barbara County, California, and I’m delighted to offer members his latest releases, from the incredibly engaging and charismatic 2022 vintage, ahead of the rest of the UK market.
In his thirties now, Gavin has 18 harvests under his belt working mostly with the same plots of old vines. His focus is exclusively on single-vineyard chardonnay and pinot noir. Perfume, freshness and supple texture are the hallmarks of his wines, all of which are inherently elegant.
Order by midday on Friday 17th January
His winemaking career began at long-time Society favourite Au Bon Climat. Taking time out from his art studies, Gavin interned during harvest with the legendary Jim Clendenen, before working his way up to assistant winemaker. Jim undoubtedly influenced the direction Gavin took, and by the time he was in his mid-20s he was already widely celebrated for making wines with Burgundian finesse and understated sophistication.
There is an immediacy and an openness to his 2022s which I adore. They are a great place for members to begin exploring, as you can start drinking them this year, should you wish. That said, Gavin loves old wine so is always thinking about ageworthiness. It is his firm belief that balanced chardonnay and pinot taste great both young and with age. Featuring the celebrated Santa Barbara vineyards of Sanford & Benedict, Bien Nacido and Los Alamos, this is a thrilling First Release which I hope you get stuck into!
First Release: 2022 chardonnay and pinot noir from Santa Barbara superstar Chanin Wines
