Appearance: Brilliant pale gold with slight green reflections
Nose: Intense and precise aromas of lemon zest, green apple, and white peach with distinctive mineral notes of wet stone, sea spray, and flint. Subtle hints of white flowers, chamomile, and delicate toast add complexity.
Palate: Medium-bodied with remarkable tension and energy. Vibrant citrus, Granny Smith apple, and unripe pear flavors are framed by a pronounced mineral backbone. The texture shows both precision and depth with a crystalline purity. Oak influence is thoughtfully restrained, providing subtle framing rather than obvious flavor markers.
Finish: Long, focused, and mouthwatering with lingering citrus, saline notes, and a distinctive chalky minerality characteristic of the region's unique diatomaceous soils
Producer: The Hilt Estate (part of the Hilt Estate, owned by Stan Kroenke) Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California Vintage: 2018 Varietal: 100% Chardonnay Vineyard Sources: Primarily estate vineyards including Radian and Bentrock Soil: Primarily diatomaceous earth and limestone with marine sedimentary components Climate: Cool maritime climate with strong Pacific Ocean influence Elevation: Varying elevations from 400-700 feet above sea level Harvest: Hand-harvested in the cool early morning Fermentation: Primarily native yeast fermentation in barrel Malolactic Fermentation: Partial to maintain tension and freshness Aging: 11-12 months in French oak barrels (approximately 30% new) Alcohol: 13.5% ABV Production: Limited production, approximately 2,000-2,500 cases Suggested drinking window: 2021-2028
The Hilt Estate focuses on producing exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the western edge of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, one of California's most promising cool-climate growing regions. Their estate vineyards, particularly Radian and Bentrock, are among the most extreme sites in the appellation – remote, windswept, and challenging.
The 2018 vintage in Sta. Rita Hills was excellent, marked by a moderate growing season with cool temperatures influenced by persistent marine layer fog and afternoon winds from the Pacific Ocean. This extended growing season allowed for gradual, even ripening without excessive sugar accumulation, resulting in wines with excellent natural acidity, balanced alcohol levels, and pronounced site-specific character.
Winemaker Matt Dees, along with assistant winemaker Kari Crist, employs a minimalist approach, focusing on expressing the unique terroir of these extreme coastal vineyards. The Hilt's Chardonnays are known for their electric acidity, mineral intensity, and ability to age gracefully.
Best served chilled but not too cold (around 50-55°F/10-13°C) to fully appreciate the wine's complex aromatics and textural qualities. If stored in a refrigerator, remove 15-20 minutes before serving.