Sweet vanilla and woodsy spices on the nose before a generous, open-knit palate with a seam of acidity cutting through complex phenolics. Flavors of papaya, lemon curd, apple fritters and white flowers. Very textural on the palate and in the finish. Drink or hold.

The 2023 Chardonnay Estate is a crystal-clear representation of the new Chardonnay approach at The Hilt, bursting from the glass with a quintessential bouquet of dried kelp, iodine, citrus rinds and green orchard fruits, supported by a pleasant, woody backdrop. Seamless and lively on the palate, it concludes with a lifted, subtly complex finish that lingers with pleasant phenolic grip and weightless density. It's primarily composed of fruit from Radian, followed by Bentrock and Sanford & Benedict.- ML

The 2023 Chardonnay Estate is a blend of Bentrock, Radian and Sanford & Benedict, three of the very finest sites in the region. The 2023 impresses with its perfectly integrated acidity right out of the gate. Taut, mineral-drenched citrus fruit and chalk run through a focused, driven, linear Chardonnay with great salty character and a supremely crisp. This is an excellent introduction to the range and the house style. - Billy Norris, August 2025

Orchard fruits, minty herbs, crushed stone, and hints of salty sea breeze define the 2023 Chardonnay Hilt Estate, and it's medium-bodied, juicy, fresh, and focused, with nicely integrated acidity and a clean, classy finish. This is a beautiful base Chardonnay for readers looking to see what these wines are all about. Drink bottles over the coming 5-7 years. Drink 2025-2032.