The Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay is composed of six different Chardonnay clones grown on eight lots across the Lafond Vineyard. Each clone has distinct characteristics, and each lot consists of different types of soils.
Winemaker Bruce McGuire creates an incredible depth of flavor by layering the unique characteristics found in each clone. Finally, this wine undergoes barrel aging before it is ready to tell its complex story.
Winemaker Comments: Hilltop Vineyard has some of the oldest Chardonnay vines in the Sta. Rita Hills. Planted in the late 70's, the wine shows great depth of flavor. Lafond has five different clones spread over two root stocks in sandy loam. Together they are a prototypical expression of Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay.
Tasting Notes: The 2018 Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay is a golden hay color with mild aromas of lemon zest,cantaloupe, and jasmine. Flavors of crisp pear, crushed gravel, and almond complete thepalate. This bright Chardonnay pairs well with shrimp scampi, fish tacos, and beet salads.
Awards
Gold Medal 2019 Central Coast Wine Competition
Wine Spectator - 93 points
Wine Enthusiast - 93 points
2018 Chardonnay - Sta. Rita Hills
VINEYARDS
52% Hilltop Ranch Chardonnay
48% Lafond Vineyard Chardonnay
AVA: Sta. Rita Hills
HARVEST
October 4 - 31, 2018
Sugar: 23.2 - 24.7
BOTTLING
August 29 & 30, 2019
WINE
Alcohol: 14.3%
Total Acid: .71
pH: 3.44
Dry
46 130gal. puncheons
16 60gal. barrels
16% new French & Hungarian oak barrels
100% barrel fermented & 100% ML
Sur lie batonnage
Production: 2,872 cases
We kindly request a 3 bottle minimum order.
Shipping Fee: $12.00 Flat Rate, Fed Ex Ground
All wine shipments must be ordered and signed for by someone 21 years or older. We recommend using a workplace address to ensure timely delivery.
Please Note: During warm weather months, we monitor the temperatures in your area to ensure that the wine is not subject to high temperatures during transit that may damage the wine. If temperatures rise beyond a set threshold, a weather hold may be placed on your order until the weather cools down.
Expedited shipping is available on request within reason. Please call the winery for all special requests regarding shipping.
Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding your order.