Product Overview
Appellation Notes
"The Sta. Rita Hills AVA is significantly impacted by its proximity to the ocean (10 miles), consistent morning/evening fog, and steady afternoon winds. These cooling trends are not only perfectly suited to growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Grenache, and Syrah, but also serve to prolong the growing season, allowing for heightened varietal flavor intensity. Additionally, the area’s cool climate and vineyards’ calcareous rock and sand help produce grapes with natural acidity and flavor balance."
Winemaker's Notes
"This Chardonnay offers a distinctly mineral-driven profile, with captivating notes of crushed rocks and oyster shell. On the palate, it presents a lean structure balanced by delicate hints of apricot and tart white nectarine. Subtle flavors of honeysuckle and lemon zest add complexity, while the texture on the back end leads to a long and persistent finish."
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Clonal Selection: 4, 5, Mt. Eden, 95, 72
Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills AVA
Vineyard Sources: 58% Zotovich, 14% Spear, 14% Gnesa, 7% Bentrock, 7% Francesa
Aging: 15 months in French oak, 100% neutral
Production: 281 cases
Winemaker: Matt Brady
91 Points - Wine Enthusiast
"Slightly warm aromas of delicate butter meet with crushed stone on the pleasant if simple nose of this appellation blend. The palate shows a compelling texture, offering light nectarine and lemon peel flavors." -MK, 12/1/24
89 Points - Wine Advocate
"The 2022 Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills is soft and orchard-fruited on the nose, with lovely floral notes providing lifted energy. The palate strikes a solid balance between textural richness and structural framing, concluding with focused, saline-tinged acidity." -ML, 10/10/24
88 Points - Vinous
"The 2022 Chardonnay (Sta. Rita Hills) is a pretty, aromatic wine. Lemon confit, dried flowers, mint, herbs and white pepper are nicely lifted. There's good energy but also a vegetal undertone that suggests this was picked too early." -AG, Jul/2024
