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2018 Reserve Chardonnay
Sta. Rita Hills
The Sta. Rita Hills AVA has achieved much acclaim for its Chardonnays, and this classic lives up to its Reserve title. The grapes came from five Chardonnay clones on the Lafond property, and fruit from Hilltop Ranch, one of the oldest vineyards in the area. 100% barrel fermentation and aging, with additional malolactic fermentation, has resulted in a beautifully creamy, complex wine.
- 91 pts. Wine Enthusiast
- Sliver - 2022 Toast of the Coast
In Stock
Wine Specs
Vintage
2018
Varietal
Chardonnay
Appellation
Sta. Rita Hills
Vineyard Designation
Lafond Vineyard; Hilltop Ranch
Harvest Date
September 13 - October 5, 2018
Sugar
22.7 - 24.3 Brix
Acid
.71
pH
3.27
Bottling Date
September 5-6, 2019
Residual Sugar
Dry
Alcohol %
14.4
Wine Enthusiast
91
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
The 2018 Reserve Chardonnay oozes sophistication with rich, fully-ripe aromas and flavors. Baking spice and oak meet the nose as pineapple and vanilla coat the tongue, leading to a smooth, honey finish.
Vineyard Notes
62% Lafond Vineyard; 38% Hilltop Ranch; Sta. Rita Hills AVA
Production Notes
100% barrel fermented; malolactic fermentation; aged sur lie 10mos; 1890 cases produced
Winemaker Notes
This wine was chosen from the best barrels of the five Chardonnay clones we grow at our Lafond Vineyard. In addition, we chose fruit from the lowest-vigor blocks at Hilltop Ranch, our neighbor. Hilltop Ranch was planted in the late 1970s and is one of the oldest Chardonnay sources in Sta. Rita Hills.
Food Pairing Notes
Vegetable risotto; fried chicken; salads with creamy dressing