2011 Sandhi Wines Santa Barbara County Chardonnay

Sandhi was founded in 2010 by Rajat Parr, wine director for Michael Mina Restaurants, and Sashi Moorman, a chef-turned-winemaker. Based in the Santa Rita Hills, Sandhi sources Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from area vineyards. Parr, who has become one of the most ambitious and complimented wine entrepreneurs on the Central Coast, and Moorman are especially noted for their Chardonnays. Wine writers have described Sandhi Chardonnays as Burgundian in style, though clearly from California in terms of the ripeness of the fruit.

Santa Barbara County is not an AVA, but a region just south of San Luis Obispo that includes the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Wine has been produced in the area since the 18th century when Spanish missionaries planted vineyards. It wasn’t until the 1990s, however, that producers focused on growing premier grapes for fine wines. During the 1990s more than 10,000 acres of vineyards were planted, and today there are nearly 20,000 acres of vineyards. The region received a big bump in recognition and prestige when the popular film “Sideways” was shot there in 2004. Because the region is affected by maritime weather, it is relatively cool climate makes it ideal for Chardonnay. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and an increasingly adventuresome number of varietals are also grown successfully in Santa Barbara County.

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.