Eden Rift Vineyard, arguably the oldest continuing vineyard in California, now includes 22 acres of Chardonnay spread out over 3 distinct sites. The clonal mix favors the Calera clone. Each site has unusually rich limestone soil and this Chardonnay certainly displays a chalky background note. Its light yellow color tips you off to the depth of flavor to follow. Barrel fermented on native yeasts, this wine was aged in French oak for 10 months. It is front-loaded with lush ripe apple and lime aromas. Medium bodied and beautifully textured, it is lush yet lively on the palate. Some nuanced chalky, leesy, mineral notes add to the vibrant ripe apple flavors. Wonderful long finish with good acidity. Poised and balanced throughout, it will drink well over the next several years.
Eden Rift Vineyards, Cienega Valley (San Benito County, California) Chardonnay 2019
By Norm Roby