Racines Bentrock Vineyard Chardonnay 2018

One of the finest Chardonnay examples produced in Santa Barbara County, if not California in its entirety. This has a striking, dramatic minerality that vaults from the glass and only ever gains in intensity with exposure to air. The palate is full, layered and high-toned while steering clear of either shrillness or thickness. The finish is both explosive and poised; a truly recalibrating California Chardonnay for those still skeptical of what can be achieved here. Drinking window: 2020-2040. Score – 97. (Matthew Luczy, decanter.com, Dec. 16, 2020)