Current Release
2019 Chardonnay, Rita's Crown 750ML
Rita’s Crown sits majestically at some of the highest elevations in the Sta. Rita Hills. We source fruit from steep, south and southwest facing blocks of sand and clay loam with abundant diatomaceous earth. Daily winds and fog deliver a strong marine influence resulting in an interesting saline note in the wines, along with the chalky minerals from the soils. Ripeness is delivered through the long season, not high temperatures.
Yields are low. The Chardonnay in this block typically sets between a ton and a half and three tons per acre from a relatively small canopy. In 2019 it was closer to two TPA. These low yields and long cool season result in ripeness at incredibly strong acid levels. We think this is a hallmark of great sites. The wines are dramatic and expressive, with a tremendously long finish.
Jeb Dunnuck gushed over this wine, giving it 95 Points, and stated:
“…the 2019 Chardonnay Rita's Crown Vineyard offers another level of richness without compromising on purity or focus. Lemon, ripe orchard fruits, iodine, and chalky mineral notes all flow to a medium-bodied Chardonnay with good acidity and a long, layered profile on the palate. Aged 18 months in a mix of small and larger barrels (30% new), it’s another head-turning good wine from this team.”
Galloni gave it 94 points, calling the wine, “powerful, deep and structured.”
Extremely Limited: Only 230 Cases Produced.
Yields are low. The Chardonnay in this block typically sets between a ton and a half and three tons per acre from a relatively small canopy. In 2019 it was closer to two TPA. These low yields and long cool season result in ripeness at incredibly strong acid levels. We think this is a hallmark of great sites. The wines are dramatic and expressive, with a tremendously long finish.
The 2019 wine fermented in French oak barrels, 30% new. The resulting wine went through partial malolactic fermentation in barrel and was then aged for 18 months on its lees, without stirring, before selection, blending and bottling.
Jeb Dunnuck gushed over this wine, giving it 95 Points, and stated:
“…the 2019 Chardonnay Rita's Crown Vineyard offers another level of richness without compromising on purity or focus. Lemon, ripe orchard fruits, iodine, and chalky mineral notes all flow to a medium-bodied Chardonnay with good acidity and a long, layered profile on the palate. Aged 18 months in a mix of small and larger barrels (30% new), it’s another head-turning good wine from this team.”
Galloni gave it 94 points, calling the wine, “powerful, deep and structured.”
Extremely Limited: Only 230 Cases Produced.
Wine Profile
| Vintage | 2019 |
|---|---|
| Varietal | Chardonnay |
| Size | 750 ml |