# Bentrock Chardonnay (2018)

- **Producer:** Racines Wine
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.7%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** lemon, peach, apple, pear, biscuit, butter

## About this wine

The Racines Bentrock Chardonnay 2018 originates from the Sta. Rita Hills appellation in California, a region recognized for its cool climate. This wine is a product of Racines, a collaborative venture founded by Étienne de Montille of Domaine de Montille and Rodolphe Péters of Pierre Péters, alongside American winemaker Brian Sieve. Their objective is to craft wines that reflect the purity and transparency of the terroir, leveraging the unique characteristics of the Sta. Rita Hills. The Bentrock Vineyard, situated on the western side of Santa Rosa Road, features north-facing parcels with soils composed of diatomaceous earth, sediment, and clay, contributing to the wine's distinct profile.

## Interesting facts

- A Franco-American wine collaboration.
- Vineyard sits on rolling slopes between 400-500 feet.
- Soils include diatomaceous earth, sediment, and clay.
- Focus on purity and transparency in winemaking.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and subtle oak integration can stand up to richer dishes, while its minerality and high-toned palate cut through creamy textures and complement seafood. The balanced acidity provides a refreshing counterpoint to fatty elements.

## Wine making process

The Racines Bentrock Chardonnay 2018 is produced from 100% Chardonnay grapes. The winemaking approach emphasizes purity and transparency, aiming to showcase the unique terroir of the Sta. Rita Hills. Key techniques likely include fermentation in neutral oak, which allows the fruit and mineral characteristics of the Chardonnay to be the primary focus. The wine is lightly oaked, suggesting a careful integration of oak to complement the wine's structure and flavor profile without overpowering it. Harvest timing is a crucial element in achieving the desired balance of ripeness and acidity, essential for cool-climate Chardonnay.