Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant.

Established in 2008 and located in the Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, The Hilt Estate is owned by Stan Kroenke, who also owns the English soccer club Arsenal FC. The wine team led by Matt Dees, produces 3 ranges of wines: Estate, The Guards, and Single Vineyards. Since 2014 the company has switched to an organic regime.

The estate's vineyards, planted with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, are located in the southwest corner of Sta. Rita Hills, the coolest wine area in California. Here the vines enjoy a maritime climate with ocean winds that guarantee more moderate temperatures and allow for a slow ripening of the grapes. Poor soils stimulate and limit the vigor of the vines, resulting in low yields. The resulting wines are characterized by great concentration and complexity.

Hilt Estate's Chardonnay is a clean and lively wine, characterized by typical aromas of fresh fruit, citrus, and white flowers, accompanied by light toasted notes and some herbaceous nuances. On the palate, it shows a fresh and vibrant character with a pleasant acid vein and a delicately creamy texture that creates a perfect balance. Try it with scallops and crab or serve it well chilled with some fancy appetizers for a classy aperitif.