Bentrock Single Vineyard, Santa-Rita Hills, Chardonnay 2022 Racines Wines | California

Racines Wines ' Bentrock Chardonnay embodies the meeting of Burgundian refinement and Californian terroir energy. Bentrock Vineyard is located to the west of the Santa Rita Hills appellation, and benefits from a refreshing oceanic influence. The two parcels from which this wine comes, Santa Lucia and Tierra, rest on complex soils composed respectively of clay and shale, and sand and silt. These conditions allow the grapes to ripen slowly, preserving their natural acidity and giving the wine a remarkable structure.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : Bentrock Chardonnay perfectly illustrates the synergy between Burgundian know-how and the potential of California terroirs. Étienne de Montille brings the Domaine de Montille touch to this wine, adapting traditional techniques to the specificities of Santa Rita Hills. This is a wine of great precision, with a superb balance between aromatic richness and freshness. When tasted, it immediately evokes certain Côte de Beaune grands crus, while at the same time expressing an energy unique to Santa Rita Hills. I particularly appreciate its length on the palate and its ability to evolve in the glass. This is an admirable cuvée, to be enjoyed now or kept for a few years.

On the nose, this Chardonnay reveals delicate aromas of white flowers, lime zest and candied citron. Subtle mineral notes reminiscent of graphite add freshness.

On the palate, the attack is lively, with well-integrated acidity underpinning citrus and white-fleshed fruit flavors. The texture is silky, offering a sensation of density without heaviness. An immense sensation of freshness emerges. The finish is persistent, marked by a pronounced minerality and slight salinity, the signature of the Santa Rita Hills terroir. This is a great white wine from Racines Wines.