Santa Barbara County 
The 2010 blend is the combination of two very different components, as they were picked on each side of a major heat spell. The Bien Nacido (45%) contributes the lean fresh aspect of the vintage as it was harvested after a long, slow cool growing season and the Solomon Hills (55%) gives a ripe, rich and golden touch to this wine. That combination of freshness and richness is strongly reminiscent in style to the new wines of the Macon region of southern Burgundy that are being produced by young, talented winemakers.
Like in Macon, the intent here is to capture the vineyard personalities in pure form without the distraction of winemaking artifice. The lively tone of this chardonnay makes it a natural compliment to a wide variety of foods.
The wine was aged for 10 months in neutral french oak barrels. While in barrel the lees were stirred to encourage malo-lactic fermenation as well as add weight to the wine. SO2 was not added until bottling, therefore brioche and yeasty notes developed and built aromatic complexity.
Blend: 100% Chardonnay | Alc: 14.0% | Vinification: 100% Neutral French Oak | Barrel Aging: 10 Months | Total Production: 716 cases
Press Reviews
Antonio Galloni’s Vinous
“The 2010 Chardonnay is drop-dead gorgeous. White flowers, peaches and crushed rocks are some of the notes that take shape in the glass. Beautiful, rich and round, yet pure Ojai in its brilliance, the 2010 impresses for its balance and harmony. This stellar appellation wine is a blend of young vine fruit from Solomon Hills and Bien Nacido.” – AG 92 Points
Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
“Light yellow. Vibrant aromas of pear and lemon zest, with jasmine and green tea nuances adding complexity. Displays an array of crisp citrus and orchard fruit flavors, picking up deeper melon and anise qualities with air. Floral and spice notes linger on the long, juicy, seamless finish. This wine was made younger vines in the Solomon Hills and Bien Nacido vineyards” – JR 90 Points
