Product Overview
Winery's Notes:
"This 3-acre vineyard in the heart of the Santa Maria Bench was planted in 1966. Situated in a wind-protected swale at the mouth of Tepesquet Canyon, it is named for Dick's great uncle, Ernesto Wickenden. The grapes are hand-harvested grapes are gently whole-cluster pressed on a gentle cycle. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks for approximately 18-30 days before then aging in neutral French oak for four months. The wine is bright and lively, and displays notes of citrus, pear and melon, with a long clean “minerally” finish."
Varietal Composition: 100% Chenin Blanc (clone 01)
Appellation: Santa Maria Valley AVA
Vineyard Designation: Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard
Vine Age: Planted in 1966
Aging: 5 months in primarily 500L French oak puncheons, a small portion in 225L Acacia barrels
Production: 1,169 cases
93 Points - Vinous
"The 2023 Chenin Blanc Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard Old Vines is creamy, layered and super-expressive. Orchard fruit, mint, white pepper and sage are some of the notes that inform this resonant, deep Chenin. Aging in 500-liter neutral oak barrels works so well here. This structured white from own-rooted vines planted in 1966 is one of the most unique wines in all of Santa Barbara." -AG, Jul/2024
91 Points - Wine Advocate
"Equal parts charming curiosity and time-tested mainstay, the 2023 Chenin Blanc Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard was sourced from vines planted in 1966. It opens with a clean, steely nose of tropical fruit and crushed stones, introducing a palate that straddles plush, weighty power and vibrant, cleansing refreshment. It concludes with a mineral-driven finish filled in by a subtle nutty richness." -ML, 10/10/24
90 Points - Wine Spectator
"Bright and fresh, with a generous, lip-smacking core of apricot, chamomile, melon and apple skin notes. This firms up on the finish, showing a peach blossom accent. Drink now. 1,169 cases made." -MW, 10/7/24
