A new project from Super Star Wine Maker Matt Dees (Jonata Winery).
As hinted at in the name, The Hilt goes "all the way" in its quest for expression and quality; nothing is held back in terms of effort.
2012 The Hint Vanguard Chardonnay Santa Barbara County...$36.99
One of the top Chardonnays reviewed in this report, Dees’ 2012 Chardonnay Vanguard is a thrilling effort that excels on all accounts. Coming from Sanford & Benedict (40-year-old vines) and Solomon Hills (12-year-old vines) and tiny yields, it was aged 11 months in 85% new French oak prior to bottling. Giving up beautifully defined and focused aromas and flavors of stone fruits, citrus peel, brioche and a salty, flint-like quality, this awesome Chardonnay flows onto the palate with medium-bodied richness, perfectly integrated acidity and a seamless, silky finish that just keeps going. Enjoy this beauty over the coming 5-7 years, although I see no need to delay gratification either.
Rated 95/100 The Wine Advocate
2012 The Hilt Vanguard Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills...$36.99
The 2012 Pinot Noir Vanguard comes mostly from the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, yet has 15% of the blend coming from Bien Nacido. Aged in 45% new French oak, it’s a rich, muscular effort that has lots of underbrush and herbs to go with toast, spice, black raspberry and currant-styled fruit. This concentrated, yet layered and seamless beauty will drink well for over a decade.
Rated 93+/100 The Wine Advcate
2012 The Hilt Old Guard Pinot Noir...$47.99
Possessing additional minerality, the 2012 Pinot Noir Old Guard is also firm and structured, with earthy dark fruits, underbrush, herbs and ample spice all emerging from the glass. Spending 11 months in 30% new French oak, with the balance all in neutral oak, it’s a medium to full-bodied, concentrated and perfectly balanced Pinot that needs another year or two in bottle, but will have 10-15 years of overall longevity.
Rated 94+/100 The Wine Advocate
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