The Hilt Estate Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay 2021

USA : CALIFORNIA : STA. RITA HILLS SUSTAINABLE : Chardonnay MED-BODIED, LEMON CUSTARD, CHALKY MINERALITY, WHITE PEACH, SEA SALT, NEUTRAL OAK The Sta. Rita Hills AVA runs east-west — unusual for California — funneling Pacific air inland in cold afternoon gusts that cap ripeness and hold acidity through every stage of the growing season. The soils at The Hilt's Radian and Bentrock vineyards are diatomaceous earth: fossilized marine plankton, porous and mineral-rich, forcing roots deep and limiting yields. The 2021 Estate Chardonnay draws from both parcels — Radian's oceanic, chalky precision blended with Bentrock's warmer, rounder clay character. After whole-cluster pressing and native yeast fermentation in French oak, the wine spent 11 months in barrel (35% new) before an additional six months on lees in neutral stainless. That stainless lees phase is the signature of this wine — textural depth and a seamless, silky finish without added oak influence. Full malolactic fermentation contributes the midpalate creaminess; the Pacific wind supplies the acidity that keeps everything in line. Jeb Dunnuck called it "a bright, racy, Chablis-like vibe" — 90 points. Wine Advocate matched it. PAIRINGS : Pan-seared halibut with lemon-herb beurre blanc citrus and cream echo the sauce; the chalky finish cleanses the richness Scallops with cauliflower purée mineral on mineral — a natural match for Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay Roasted chicken with tarragon cream sauce the malolactic texture pairs with the cream; the wine's acidity cuts through

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