PIETRA SANTA — CHARDONNAY (Vintage 2014, White) Country: U.S.A. Region: Cienega Valley, California Grape: Chardonnay
A family-run estate, Pietra Santa (meaning “Sacred Stone” in honor of the unique terroir) is in a beautiful valley just 25 miles from Monterey Bay. This coastal location provides cooling maritime breezes and a long growing season that results in vibrant and flavorful wines. The estate’s wine history dates back to the 1850’s, when the first vines were planted there. Bisected by one of California’s most significant fault lines, the earth’s movements filled the soils with granite and limestone. This special soil contributes greatly to the low yields and interesting characters and flavors in their wines. The Blackburn family continues the tradition of quality winemaking in this special place. Only 120 of the estate’s 450 acres are planted in wine grapes. Other acreage is devoted to olive trees and there is a treasured bock of Zinfandel planted in 1905.
With a mere 1274 cases produced, this light gold with green tints wine is crisp and fresh with flavors of white peaches, pears and melons, with a subtle bouquet of lavender. Made in an un-oaked style, the wine is vibrant with natural acidity and balance.
Enjoy it now. Serve chilled with soft creamy cheese such as French Brie, and with grilled fish such as swordfish or salmon. It is amazing when paired with shellfish, especially sautéed soft shell crabs and Maryland-style crab cakes. Chardonnay is one of the few grapes that honestly does not require blending. It is a highly aromatic fruit of great complexity with a flavor intense enough to stand all on its own. It is the individual artistry of the winemaker and his fermentation and aging processes that bring out the intriguing variety of delicate aromas and flavors in the many different Chardonnays on the market today. Pietra Santa’s estate bottled offering is handled with obvious care and expertise.
