VINEYARD Francesca, Sta. Rita Hills AVA
CLONES Wente-72
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Sandyloam
FERMENTATION 75% barrel, 25% oak foudre
ÉLEVAGE 50% new French oak, 50% neutral oak for 14 months
ALCOHOL 14.3%
pH 3.34
TA 6.6 g/L
AROMA
Generous aromas of nectarine, apricot, and honeydew melon, accented by vanilla, cinnamon, and delicate florals.
PALATE
Round and expressive, with lively acidity balancing stone fruit and mild oak. A velvety texture unfolds into a long, fragrant finish.
Francesca Vineyard is one of the westernmost sites in the Sta. Rita Hills—a windswept knoll where vines face the full force of the Pacific’s cooling fog and coastal breezes. Tucked away in Sweeney Canyon, this seven-acre site is a hidden gem, defined by its sandy loam soils and high-density plantings. The extreme conditions result in naturally low yields, producing small clusters with thick skins that lend depth and concentration to the wines grown here.
To honor the singular nature of this site, we fermented this Chardonnay entirely in barrel using native yeasts, allowing the vineyard’s character to unfold. Aged for 14 months in French oak, with a balanced mix of new and neutral oak barrels, this wine carries a remarkable texture and energy. Aromas of nectarines, apricots, and honeydew melon lead into a round, expressive palate with lively acidity. As the wine lingers, it turns velvety, revealing delicate florals through a long, persistent finish.
Fact of Note: This Chardonnay underwent 100% native fermentation in 60-gallon barrels.
THE STA. RITA HILLS IS located between the towns of Buellton and Lompoc in Santa Barbara County. A critical component for this region’s success is its cool climate and the purely East/West mountain range, whose maritime mouth funnels coastal fog and wind to the vines. This unique orientation, coupled with exceptional Botella clay and limestone soils, produces wines that are as focused and bright as they are alluring.
Before you hit the Sta. Rita Hills, stretch your legs and explore the various hotels, restaurants, parks, and shops of the quaint town of Buellton. Now famous after making its silver screen debut in the movie Sideways, you can relive the film by visiting one of the many charming eateries and must-go spots when in the area.
