Sanford Winery, a cool-climate wine pioneer in Sta. Rita Hills, showcases excellence in the renowned Sanford & Benedict vineyard, planted in 1971. Richard Sanford and Michael Benedict's vision resulted in acclaimed wines marked by complexity. Exclusive use of estate fruit from Sanford & Benedict and La Rinconada vineyards in Sta. Rita Hills AVA defines their commitment to terroir. Hand-harvested grapes, individually vinified blocks, and barrel fermentation in French oak highlight precision winemaking. Eight and a half months' maturation in French oak, including 20% new, ensures a soft texture with vibrant acidity, preserving the essence of the fruit and terroir nuances.
NOTES FROM VINOVOSS SOMMELIER
The Sanford Sta.Rita Hills Chardonnay is a delightful wine with a rich and complex character. This Chardonnay exhibits a beautiful golden hue in the glass, enticing the senses with its aromas of ripe tropical fruits, such as pineapple and mango, along with hints of citrus and vanilla.
On the palate, this wine offers a harmonious balance between its vibrant acidity and luscious fruit flavors. The tropical fruit notes continue to shine, accompanied by flavors of crisp apple and pear. There is a subtle creaminess to the texture, adding depth and complexity to the wine. The oak influence is well-integrated, providing a touch of toasty vanilla and a hint of spice.
The Sanford Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay is a well-crafted wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes. Its refreshing acidity makes it a great match for seafood, particularly grilled shrimp or scallops. It also complements creamy pasta dishes and roasted chicken beautifully.
The Central Coast of California is a wine lover's paradise, boasting a wide variety of climates, soils, and grape varieties. Located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the Central Coast spans from Monterey County in the north to Santa Barbara County in the south. With its diverse topography and Mediterranean climate, the Central Coast is home to some of the most renowned wineries in the United States.
The Central Coast has a long and storied history of winemaking, dating back to the mid-1800s. The first vineyards were planted in the Santa Clara Valley, and by the late 1800s, the region was producing some of the finest wines in the country. The region's reputation for quality wines was further solidified in the early 1989, when the Santa Clara Valley was declared among the first American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the United States.