2018 The Hilt Chardonnay Bentrock
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Tasting notes
At over 500 feet above sea level, Bentrock is comprised of long, rolling hills that are not especially steep. Vines flow down the hillsides, gathering ample sunlight yet ripening slowly because of the elevation and moderate cooling breezes. Bentrock vineyard is nearly 92 acres, with close to 80 acres planted with Pinot Noir and the rest with Chardonnay. 33% was aged in new French oak barrels, 67% in once- and twice-used barrels for 12 months. Much richer and denser – and more interesting – on the nose than the Estate Chardonnay. Though on the palate it’s so restrained that it’s difficult to really get to grips with it. Almost more like dry grapefruit juice than wine! (JR)
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
Spiced orchard fruits, dried pineapple, toasted bread, and beautiful spicy nuances emerge from the 2018 Chardonnay Bentrock Vineyard, a slightly more generous, rounded beauty that has good concentration, plenty of acidity, and a great finish. It's going to impress over the coming decade.
The 2018 Chardonnay Bentrock is the most powerful wine in the range. Nothing in particular stands out, rather it is the wine's balance that is really impressive. Broad and expansive in feel, with tremendous depth, the Bentrock captures all the magic of the Sta. Rita Hills. The Bentrock is a Chardonnay of real gravitas and power.
The 2018 Chardonnay Bentrock is rich and textured in the glass, with striking notes of orchard fruit, apricot, tangerine and chamomile that develop effortlessly. Tropical overtones add layers of complexity and intrigue to this wonderfully alluring, enticing Chardonnay from The Hilt.
About the producer
The Hilt is the Santa Rita Hills project owned by sports and property mogul billionaire Stan Kroenke, who also owns Screaming Eagle in Napa Valley and the Jonata estate in the California’s Ballard Canyon AVA.