The Hilt : Estate Chardonnay 2018

A lively and delicious Californian Chardonnay

The estate

Owned by Stan Kroenke, who also owns the iconic Screaming Eagle estate and Domaine Bonneau du Martray in Burgundy, The Hilt Estate is an exceptional property located in the American Viticultural Area (AVA) of Sta. Rita Hills Valley in Santa Barbara County on the California Central Coast. Since 2004, the renowned Californian oenologist, Matt Dees, has been in charge of the vinification of the estate's wines. The Hilt stands out particularly for its Burgundian-inspired wines that highlight the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varieties.

The vineyard

The Hilt is located in Rancho Salsipuedes, on a complex terroir with a wide variety of soils and microclimates. The Hilt is divided into 3 vineyards: Radian, Bentrock and Puerta del Mar. Located in the southwest of the Sta. Rita Hills appellation, these three vineyards benefit from a maritime influence due to their proximity to the Pacific Ocean. these 3 vineyards give rise to fine Californian wines.

Vinification and ageing

This Hilt Estate Chardonnay was aged for 11 months in French oak barrels (34% new wood, 56% neutral barrels) and 10% in steel tanks.

Blend

Chardonnay (100%).

Characteristics and tasting tips for Estate Chardonnay 2018 from The Hilt

Tasting

Nose

The nose gives off a rich aromatic palette (white peach, lemon zest, white flowers, white truffles, lavender and fresh goat's cheese with herbs). When aerated, delicious notes of fresh croissant, almond flour and kumquat emerge.

Palate

Dense and beautifully pure, the palate entices with its tension, its vivacity and its intense fruity expression.