Sanford 2016 Chardonnay, Santa Rita Hills, Half Btl 375 ml

This 2016 Chardonnay is sourced exclusively from Sanford's two estate vineyards in heart of the cool climate Sta. Rita Hills appellation. La Rinconada Vineyard and Sanford & Benedict vineyard Chard combine to give this wine aromatic complexity and layers of flavor and richness. Hand harvested and barrel fermented and aged 9 months in 25% new French oak, this wine shows all of the bright citrus and pineapple aromas that make Santa Barbara Chardonnays so appealing.


This scored 90 points in Wine Enthusiast Magazine who said "Smoked hazelnut and rich oak aromas are cut by whiffs of lemon rind, citrus spray, chalk and Asian pear on the nose of this appellation blend. The palate offers both sharp citrus and rounded apple flavors."

Jeb Dunnuck also scored it 90 saying "The largest production cuvée is the 2016 Chardonnay, a fresh, lively, classic wine. Hints of lemon, tart citrus, and pineapple, medium body, juicy acidity, and beautiful purity of fruit all make for a Chardonnay that over-delivers."

and Wine Spectator agreed, scoring it 90 points and saying "Focused and minerally tasting, with subtle toasty notes to the pear tart, baked apple and dried tropical fruit flavors, supported by fresh acidity. Offers a long, spicy finish. Drink now through 2022."