2019 The Hilt Estate Radian Chardonnay

The 2019 Radian is a cool-climate Chardonnay from The Hilt, grown on windy, diatomaceous-earth soils in the high-ridge vineyards of the Sta. Rita Hills appellation in California. On the nose it shows precise, sea-breeze freshness with crystalline salinity and layered aromas of citrus peel (yuzu, lemon), white-flower, pear and ripe apricot - underpinned by subtle tropical tones of passionfruit and pineapple, and a hint of herbal lift. On the palate it’s structured and focused: racy acidity and a compact, mineral-tinged texture give way to a core of orchard fruit and citrus, with a slightly chalky or gravelly mouthfeel and a saline, almost oyster-shell finish.  The wine is elegant yet energised - bright and linear now, but with enough depth and tension to age gracefully for several years.