Alesia, Santa Cruz Mountains, Chardonnay, 2018
Pure, delicate and detailed, the 2019 Alesia Chardonnay is comprised of a blend of Mt. Pajara and Horseshoe fruit aged for 12 months in barrique, most of which was old. Refined and detailed, with not a hair out of place, this is a translucent and very pure mountain Chardonnay from the Rhys team, citrus flecked with touches of smoke and salt, finishing with a cool note of butter.
critic reviews
The 2018 Alesia Chardonnay Santa Cruz Mountains begins with a reserved nose, taking time to reveal itself. The palate, however, opens immediately, merging succulent power with a chiseled and balanced finish. The Alesia range consistently provides an approachable entryway into Rhys' work, offering relatively early accessibility compared to the more sturdy, structured vineyard-designate lineup.
The 2018 Chardonnay (Santa Cruz Mountains) from Alesia is a dazzling wine that captures all of the energy and vibrancy of the appellation. Citrus, crushed rocks and white flowers all grace the 2018, a Chardonnay that sizzles with energy and tension. This is a terrific showing.