Other vintages

Lightly buttered pastry, blanched almond and sea-salt aromas are very clean and compelling on the nose of this bottling. The palate is superfresh and delicate yet with zesty acidity, carrying lime and grapefruit-pith flavors with a hint of butter in the background.

The 2019 Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills is blended from both of Sanford's estate vineyards, Sanford & Benedict and La Rinconada, each planted to a wide variety of clonal selections. Barrel fermented, it underwent full malolactic conversion and was matured for 11 months in 25% new French oak. The nose features poached pears, baker's yeast, almonds and stone with citrus blossom perfume. The medium-bodied palate surprises with its depth of flavor and savory accents, with a silky, fresh frame and an anchoring touch of texture on the finish. 40,224 cases produced.

Appealing for the intensity to the peach sorbet, lemongrass and lemon meringue pie flavors, with a touch of salted roasted cashew on the finish. Drink now. 4,997 cases made.

The 2019 Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills is the larger production release from the estate, and it's well worth seeking out. Stone fruits, white flowers, melon, and a kiss of salty mineral all emerge from this medium-bodied effort, and it's nicely textured, with integrated acidity and a great finish. Readers looking to understand the style of Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay can't go wrong with this.