2021 Hilliard Bruce Chardonnay
Our southernmost source for Chardonnay, this vineyard lies in Santa Rita Hills
$55
Retail
$44
About the Wine
The Hilliard Bruce Vineyard continues to be Landmark’s southernmost source for premium Chardonnay. Situated near the northwestern edge of Santa Barbara County’s prestigious Sta. Rita Hills appellation, the blocks that we source from provide us with the small-clustered Dijon clones 76 and 96 to craft this Chardonnay. This vineyard’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean provides a definite cool-climate character to this wine.
Tasting Notes
Varietal Composition
- % Chardonnay
Body
Appearance
Pale straw color with slow-forming tears.
Aroma
Aromatic with Asian pear, Meyer lemon, crisp yellow apple, honeysuckle flower, vanilla, and toasted oak.
Palate
Medium-bodied and lively on the palate with notes of lemon zest, Honeycrisp apple, and pear on entry, with toast, exotic spice, and vanilla appearing on the midpalate. A moderately long finish is sustained by persistent fruit, Brie, citrus blossom, and well-integrated oak.
Key Features
Appellation
Sta. Rita Hills
Fermentation
Whole-cluster-pressed and barrel-fermented with native yeast
Maturation
Barrel-aged for 14 months in French oak (30% new)
Alcohol
14.2%
SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRINGS
Seared Scallops
The lively acidity and citrus notes in the wine can complement the sweetness of the seared scallops, while the hints of vanilla and toasted oak can provide a nice contrast to the seafood flavors.