93 points Jeb Dunnuck (Wine Advocate): "Sporting a slightly lighter color than the Vanguard release, the 2014 Chardonnay Old Guard has that raw Chardonnay fruit profile of lemon curd, apple blossom, citrus and hints of crushed rock. Medium-bodied, lively and bracing on the palate, with bright acidity, it's a downright classy and elegant chardonnay that should be better in another 2-4 years and have 10-15 years of evolution. This cuvee comes from the Sanford & Benedict, Radian and Solomon Hills vineyards. Drink: 2020-2035. (Aug 2016)"
Producer notes: "Baking spice, dough and luscious notes of ripe tropical fruit. Pineapple and guava and passion fruit. Classic Hilt notes of lemon curd, fresh-pressed olive oil and a perfumed white flowers. Sourced from sun-drenched and slightly warmer sites planted with Dijon clones and fermented in neutral French oak barrels to focus on the natural volume and weight of the fruit. Wonderful fruit richness and purity through the finish. Big push of fruit, swept away gracefully by salty and electric acidity. Nothing to add or take away. Simultaneously mouthwatering and refreshing. Expansive and generous on the palate, then crystalizes into salinity, vibrant freshness and mouthwatering acidity. Such a thrill! Expands and contracts as a living and breathing wine. 367 cases produced. Alcohol 13.0%."
Product SKU | 330105 |
Producer | The Hilt |
Country | United States |
Region | California |
SubRegion | Central Coast |
Appellation | Santa Barbara County |
Varietal | Chardonnay |
Vintage | 2014 |
Size | 750ml |
Color | White |
ABV | 13.0% |
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