The 2018 The Hilt Bentrock Santa Rita Hills Chardonnay is a notable white wine from the Sta. Rita Hills appellation in California's Central Coast. Produced by Hilt, this Chardonnay has garnered significant attention from wine reviewers, achieving high scores and praise for its characteristics and potential.
Jeb Dunnuck, writing for jebdunnuck.com on August 4, 2020, awarded the wine a score of 95. He describes it as a "slightly more generous, rounded beauty" that showcases "spiced orchard fruits, dried pineapple, toasted bread, and beautiful spicy nuances." Dunnuck highlights the wine's good concentration, ample acidity, and commendable finish, suggesting that it will continue to impress over the next decade.
Vinous also gave the 2018 Bentrock a score of 95 in an August 1, 2020 review by Antonio Galloni. Galloni notes that this Chardonnay is the most powerful in Hilt's range, emphasizing its impressive balance. He describes the wine as "broad and expansive in feel, with tremendous depth," capturing "all the magic of the Sta. Rita Hills." Galloni commends the Bentrock for its gravitas and power, reinforcing its standing as a wine of significant substance.
This Chardonnay is characterized by its 13.0% alcohol content and is sealed with a traditional cork closure. The presence of spiced orchard fruits and dried pineapple, as noted by Dunnuck, combines with the balance and depth highlighted by Galloni, making this wine a well-rounded and robust option for Chardonnay enthusiasts.
Overall, the 2018 The Hilt Bentrock Santa Rita Hills Chardonnay stands out for its balance, depth, and potential for aging. Its excellent reviews from both Jeb Dunnuck and Vinous underscore its quality and the craftsmanship behind its production. This wine is a testament to the unique terroir of the Sta. Rita Hills and the skill of the Hilt winery.