2018 Rhys, Horseshoe Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Cruz Mountains

One of the many highlights in this range, the 2018 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard is positively stunning. Lemon confit, orchard fruit, matchstick, tangerine oil and a range of saline-infused notes all run through the 2018, a Chardonnay that exudes finesse, elegance and a real sense of energy. It is one of the finest Chardonnays I have tasted from Rhys.

This 3.51-acre (1.42-ha) vineyard faces mostly south and ranges in slope from 5% to a very steep 20% with shallow soils of 18 – 24 inches (45 – 60 cm) over a bedrock of Monterey shale. It sits at 1,450 – 1,500 ft (440 – 460 m) elevation. 416 cases made. Pale gold. Smells of lemon curd and pine resin. Gorgeous flavours of lemon curd and grapefruit burst on the palate with electric acidity. This wine positively vibrates with energy and possesses that saline bite that makes the mouth water. Pomelo notes linger in the finish. Utterly outstanding, even riveting. (AY)