Racines - Sta Rita Hills - 'Sanford and Benedict Vineyard' Chardonnay 2020
White
2020
California
Santa Rita Hills
Chardonnay
Tasting Notes & Ratings
Grape
100% Chardonnay
Tasting notes
The Racines Sta. Rita Hills Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Chardonnay 2020 is described as having a bright, savory, and intensely mineral character with plenty of depth, texture, and nuance. It features aromas of green apple, pear, and citrus, with flavors of white peach, apricot, and hints of vanilla on the palate. The wine is also noted for its nervy acidity and a long, textured finish.
From the famous Sanford & Benedict Vineyard with the Racine portion coming from the historic parcel of original plantings dating back to 1971. These chardonnay vines are the oldest vines in the Sta. Rita Hills and situated on a gently north facing slope with thin soils consisting of lots of shale and chert.
The wines were fermented in a combination of 500L puncheons, 350L barrels and 228L barriques, resulting in about 30% new wood on the wine. After a little under a year in barrel, the wines and all the lees were moved to tank for an additional seven months of cellaring. Fermented using all native yeasts. Aging: 18 months total with 11 months in French, oak barrels (30% new) and 7 months in tank.