2021 Sanford & Benedict Chardonnay

Appellation

Sta. Rita Hills

Varietal

Chardonnay

Wine Enthusiast

Jeb Dunnuck

Vinous

Vineyard Sources

100% Sanford & Benedict Vineyard (Block T4) located in the Sta. Rita Hills appellation

Barrel Aging

100% barrel fermented and aged for 10 months in 36% new French oak

Cooperage

Mercurey, Sirugue

Technical Data

Composition

100% Chardonnay

Alcohol %

14.1

Acidity

0.690 g/100mL

3.26

Harvest Brix

23.5

Harvest Date

10/15/21

Production

262 cases

Description

Our single vineyard and small lot releases enable us to deliver some of our finest expressions of Chardonnay by concentrating on specific vineyards, clonal selections or techniques. We have been fortunate enough to secure several tons of Chardonnay from one of the most historically significant vineyards in all of California, the iconic Sanford & Benedict.

Originally planted in 1971, this mature vineyard yields a wine that is beautifully structured with plenty of fresh acidity and verve. The palate offers lovely citrus and tropical fruit flavors backed by enticing minerality and a hint of toast.

Wine Critic Reviews

"...bright and focused, with all the energy and dimension that make wines from this site so compelling. Citrus confit, white flowers, mint, white pepper and a kick of tangerine peel add nuance throughout." ~ Antonio Galloni's Vinous "...offers exotic notes of honeyed melon, ripe orchard fruits, orange blossom, and honeyed flowers. This medium-bodied, concentrated, textured 2021 has plenty of mid-palate depth, nicely integrated acidity, and a great finish." ~ Jeb Dunnuck "Melon rind, white flower and citrus jelly aromas are fresh on the nose of this bottling. The palate starts crisp with citrus rind and then opens into pear flesh and baked-lemon flavors." ~ Wine Enthusiast