Sanford Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay
THE STORY
Our 2017 Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay comes exclusively from our two estate vineyards in the heart of this cool climate appellation. The 2017 vintage began in early September and was reflective of a year with aboveaverage rainfall. This resulted in healthy, balanced vines yielding intensely flavored fruit with good concentration, acidity and minerality.
PROFILE & WINEMAKING
Enticing aromas of grilled peach, Meyer lemon, and toasted hazelnuts greet the nose. The bright fruit and honeycomb palate is nicely framed by crisp acidity and rich texture which carries to a long, clean finish. By gently whole cluster pressing and barrel fermenting in French Oak, this Chardonnay has lovely texture to complement the bright palate. The vibrant acidity gives the wine freshness and makes a nice pairing with seafood, poultry and pasta with lighter sauces.
91 Points: "The 2017 Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills was barrel fermented and aged eight months in about 20% new oak. It has a very toasty nose with gunflint hints over baked yellow apple, white peach, pastry crust, lemon meringue and banana chip. Medium to full-bodied, it has a good core of toasty/savory fruits, with juicy acidity and a long finish." - Erin Brooks, The Wine Advocate
90 Points: "it comes from the Sanford & Benedict and La Rinconada Vineyards and was aged in 20% new French oak. It offers a terrific bouquet of stone fruits, melon, honeysuckle, and spice, with just a hint of salty minerality. It's medium-bodied, has a balanced, elegant style, nicely integrated acidity, and is as classy Chardonnay. It should also evolve nicely for 4-5 years." - Jeb Dunnuck
