In the same league, the 2012 Chardonnay Sanford & Benedict comes from some of the oldest vines in the Sta. Rita Hills (planted in 1971), and the top part of the block, on a northwest-facing slope. It possesses an exotic, nervy and vibrant style, with gorgeous mint, citrus peel and crushed rock-like aromas and flavors all emerging from the glass. Medium-bodied, layered and drop-dead gorgeous on the palate, it excels for its purity and focus more than its richness and power. It should evolve gracefully over the coming 4-5 years as well.
Justin Willett continues to knock it out of the park with these new releases, and few people in the Central Coast are doing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay better than this guy. These all lean toward the more focused, energetic end of the spectrum, yet they have solid mid-palate depth, vibrant fruit and classy profiles that keep you coming back to the glass.
Tel. (805) 769-4639; www.tylerwinery.com