This is a new producer to me, but the vineyard source is anything but new, having been around since 1849. The “Rift” in the brand name is the San Andreas Fault, known worldwide as the source of some of California’s strongest earthquakes. Everything is shaking in a good way in this glass, with focused acidity carrying pear, lemon and stony mineral flavors through a crisp, food friendly finish. This will sit nicely alongside fresh grilled seafood with a subtle sauce.
Eden Rift Vineyards, Cienega Valley (San Benito County, California) Chardonnay 2017
By Rich Cook