2020 Hilliard Bruce Chardonnay
Our southernmost source for Chardonnay, this vineyard lies in Santa Rita Hills
$50
Retail
$40
Jeb Dunnuck90 points
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
Light yellow in the glass.
Aroma
Nuanced aromas of lemon, yellow apple, citrus flowers, vanilla, and toasted oak.
Palate
The wine is lively on the palate with notes of Meyer lemon, tangerine peel, and honey crisp apple, with toasted bread, vanilla spice, and oak appearing on the midpalate. A moderately long finish features refreshing acidity, mineral texture with a distinct brine note.
Key Features
Appellation
Sta. Rita Hills
Fermentation
Whole-cluster-pressed and barrel-fermented with native yeast
Maturation
Barrel-aged for 15 months in French oak (30% new)
Alcohol
14.4%
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.
