96 Points -
"Pouring a golden yellow, the 2021 Chardonnay Radian Vineyard brings forward pure, fresh aromatics of candied lime citrus, well-managed oak spice, and wet stone. Mediumbodied, with a cleansing mineral texture and fresh lift, it’s fresh with green melon, bright acidity, a light saline note, and a hint of crushed earth. It’s a very pretty style of white to hold or drink over the next 10 years." - Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com, July 2023
Tasting Notes
The aroma opens with a beautiful citrus medley of lemon and lime, framed by subtle white flower notes. On the palate, this elegant but subtly powerful wine showcases lemon oil with nuances of salty ocean air. The combination of cool climate and poor soils builds the complex, layered texture and lively acidity.
Historic Acclaim
2019: 96 points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com, August 2022
2019: 95 points, Erin Brooks, Robert Parker The Wine Advocate, July 2022
2018: 95+ points, Lisa Perrott-Brown, Robert Parker The Wine Advocate, Jan 2021
2018: 94 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous, August 2020
2017: 94 points, Lisa Perrott-Brown, Robert Parker The Wine Advocate, Feb 2020
2017: 90 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous, April 2020
Vineyard & Vintage Character
The Sta. Rita Hills is situated in a transverse range, meaning the mountains lie east-west and not north-to-south, like most mountain ranges on the Pacific Coast. Cold ocean winds and fog therefore easily travel into the valley and cool it down considerably. 2021 is our fifth vintage of the Radian Vineyard Chardonnay. The vineyard is situated on the western edge of this unique AVA, on a dramatic, steep slope. Soils in the area are very poor, with elevated calcium levels due to an abundance of ancient sea creature fossils.
Wine Details
Oak: 100% French oak, 31% new
Time in oak: 13 months
Yeast: Native
Alcohol: 14.3%
TA: 6.0 g/L
pH: 3.33
Cases produced: 77
Unfined and unfiltered