The Hilt, Estate Chardonnay 2019

This is definitely a new cult winery in the making with many of its wines already on allocation. Based in the Santa Rita Hills the estate wines come from plots in the southwestern corner of the estate. The Chardonnay has the classic soft orchard fruit notes of California with hints of white peach and apricot. The palate gives way to delicate white flowers, frangipane and hint of clementine. This is a wine that will open and develop in the glass - perfect for a seafood risotto.

Vibrant, toasty, and reserved. Fresh pineapple. Lemon curd with powdered sugar lift. Lithe and graceful. Exotic and saline. Like oyster brine. Long life ahead. Remains taut and reserved with a fine level of soft and supple fruit. Loquat, green apple, chamomile tea, ginger, lime pith and agave. Absolute finesse with a touch of the raw energy from the cold Pacific winds. A wine of place and of attitude. Cold and steely with an undeniable touch of warmth, generosity, and overall pleasure. 11 months in 34% new French oak, 60% neutral French oak, 6% stainless barrels. 2,145 Cases produced. (Matt Dees, Winemaker)

90 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous | 92 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jebdunnuck.com