Whitcraft Winery 'Santa Rita Ranch' Chardonnay, Sta Rita Hills, California

Bright coastal air meets a whisper of orchard charm in the 2022 Whitcraft Winery Santa Rita Ranch Chardonnay. From the sandy loamy clay soils of Sweeney Canyon Road, this limited-production wine captures the essence of its young but expressive vineyard, offering precision, freshness, and a pure sense of place.

Product Details:

• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vineyard: Santa Rita Ranch
• ABV: 11.80%
• Aging: 100% Neutral French Oak
• Harvest Date: 09-14-2022
• Bottling Date: 03-16-2024
• Cases Produced: 73
• Winemaker: Drake Whitcraft

Sensory Description:

On the nose, delicate yet vivid aromas of Asian pear and lemon peel rise with crystalline clarity, evoking cool mornings and sunlit citrus groves. The palate is bright and refreshing, brimming with lively acidity that frames the fruit’s natural sweetness and mineral undertones. Each sip carries a gentle elegance, leading to a clean, precise finish that lingers with subtle orchard fruit and a touch of sea breeze salinity.

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in 1985 by Chris and Kathleen Whitcraft, Whitcraft Winery has long been a benchmark for site-driven, small-lot wines in Santa Barbara County. Today, Drake Whitcraft continues the family tradition, crafting wines that remain true to their vineyard origins with minimal intervention and a deep respect for the land.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve well-chilled at approximately 50°F to highlight its crisp acidity and fresh fruit character. This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seared scallops, oysters on the half shell, lemon-herb roast chicken, or a light goat cheese salad, enhancing both its minerality and vibrant citrus notes.

A wine that balances youthful energy with a refined coastal charm, the 2022 Whitcraft Winery Santa Rita Ranch Chardonnay delivers a pure, invigorating expression of its terroir, a bottle that promises both refreshment and sophistication.