2013 The Hilt Chardonnay Vanguard
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Tasting notes
The 2013 Chardonnay Vanguard is absolutely gorgeous. Candied lemon peel, butter, pastry, mint and spice open up first, followed by a slight tropical note that adds nuance, texture and oiliness. The 90% new French oak needs a bit more time to integrate, so readers should plan on giving the 2013 another 6-12 months in bottle, perhaps more. Vineyard sources are 56% Sanford & Benedict and 44% Solomon Hills.
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2013 Chardonnay Vanguard spent 11 months in 90% new French oak, of which it's soaked up just about every trace. Offering up lots of crushed rock, green citrus, lemon curd and a touch of brioche, it's medium-bodied and nicely textured on the palate, with a slightly more rounded, fleshy texture than the nose would have led you to believe. Balanced, lively and focused, it will be better this time next year and drink nicely through 2023.
A deep, dense wine, the 2013 Chardonnay The Vanguard boasts fabulous texture, richness and power. The 2013 is aging in 90% new barrels, but there is no sensation of heaviness or oakiness at all. Readers who enjoy broad, resonant Chardonnays will adore the 2013. This is another hugely promising wine from The Hilt. In this vintage, Sanford & Benedict plays a greater role than Solomon Hills in the blend. As always, the Vanguard sees a high percentage of new barrels, while 50% of the juice went through malolactic fermentation.
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.