Black Kite Sierra Mar Chardonnay 2016
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2015-
Enthusiast
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When started with the first vintage in 2003, they already loved great Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Burgundy and California. Over the ensuing years they have learned that they are engaged in a journey, one that combines high aspirations with long term commitment, patience and fortitude. It is a process of striving for the best over a long period of time. The winery appreciate that many of the best wines in the world are produced by family-owned wineries that have been around for generations. Black Kite is dedicated to the journey, and aspire to making great Pinot Noir and Chardonnay for many years.
One of the most popular and versatile white wine grapes, Chardonnay offers a wide range of flavors and styles depending on where it is grown and how it is made. While it tends to flourish in most environments, Chardonnay from its Burgundian homeland produces some of the most remarkable and longest lived examples. California produces both oaky, buttery styles and leaner, European-inspired wines. Somm Secret—The Burgundian subregion of Chablis, while typically using older oak barrels, produces a bright style similar to the unoaked style. Anyone who doesn't like oaky Chardonnay would likely enjoy Chablis.
Perhaps the most highly regarded appellation within Monterey County, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA benefits from a combination of warm morning sunshine and brisk afternoon breezes, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and fully. The result is concentrated, flavorful wines that retain their natural acidity. Wineries here do not shy away from innovation, and place a high priority on sustainable viticultural practices.
The climatic conditions here are perfectly suited to the production of ripe, rich Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These Burgundian varieties dominate an overwhelming percentage of plantings, though growers have also found success with Syrah, Riesling and Pinot Gris.