The Hilt Estate, encouraged by Stan Kroenke’s dedication to excellence, has turned out a series of wines that have garnered substantial critical acclaim from Robert M. Parker Jr., Jeb Dunnuck, Antonio Galloni and Stephen Tanzer.
Tasting Notes
Colour: Honey yellow colour
Nose: Honey, guava, lemon zest and apricot.
Palate: Reminiscent of a juicy nectarine, bursting with succulent fruit and lively acidity. Mouthwatering. Unadorned by oak, this wine shines with freshness and focus, depth and balance.
Grape Varieties: 100% Chardonnay
Aging: 11 months in 85% neutral French oak, 15% stainless barrels then 6 months in stainless tank
History of The Hilt Estate
To understand the wines made by The Hilt, one might need to come visit the hard and harsh conditions under which they are born.
The unobstructed, ocean facing east-west valley known as Sta. Rita Hills Valley is a complex AVA. One could divide it into four quadrants: northern-facing, southern-facing, close to the ocean, and further inland from the ocean. With such a frame, The Hilt’s favorite vineyards are in the northern-facing, closest to the ocean, windswept quadrant. These sites are the worst place for a grape grower, but the best ones for a winemaker.
Website: https://www.thehiltestate.com/