Current Release
2022 Chardonnay, Rita's Crown 750ML
Rita’s Crown sits majestically at some of the highest elevations in the Sta. Rita Hills (up to 850 feet). It has been expertly farmed (certified organic, with some biodynamic principles) for several years by the exacting Sea Smoke team, led by our old friend Julian Malone. Our blocks are located on very steep, south and southwest facing hillsides of clay and silty clay loam with abundant diatomaceous earth. The mighty pacific sends daily fog and intense afternoon winds to this high elevation site, which is perched over the Santa Ynez River as it meanders toward its terminus at Surf Beach.
The Chardonnay in this block typically produces very low yields from a small canopy. In 2022 yields were a miniscule 1.67-1.85 tons per acre. These lower yields and a long cool season result in ripeness at incredibly strong acid levels. In 2022 the final, post full malolactic fermentation pH was 3.36, with TA of 6.4. These are almost identical to the 2021 wine, which was wildly successful. We think the 2022 is very much in the same mold.
The 2022 wine fermented by native yeasts in top quality French oak barrels, 44% new. The resulting wine went through native malolactic fermentation in barrel and was aged for 18 months on its lees, without stirring, before selection, blending and bottling.
The Chardonnay in this block typically produces very low yields from a small canopy. In 2022 yields were a miniscule 1.67-1.85 tons per acre. These lower yields and a long cool season result in ripeness at incredibly strong acid levels. In 2022 the final, post full malolactic fermentation pH was 3.36, with TA of 6.4. These are almost identical to the 2021 wine, which was wildly successful. We think the 2022 is very much in the same mold.
The 2022 wine fermented by native yeasts in top quality French oak barrels, 44% new. The resulting wine went through native malolactic fermentation in barrel and was aged for 18 months on its lees, without stirring, before selection, blending and bottling.
Wine Profile
| Vintage | 2022 |
|---|---|
| Wine Style | White Wine |
| Varietal | Chardonnay |
| Size | 750 ml |