Alta Maria Vineyards Chardonnay Gold Coast 2015

Viticulture

A 30-acre vineyard located on the breathtaking bluffs of Fugler's Point in Santa Barbara County's prestigious Santa Maria Valley AVA. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir were planted in 1989. In the 1990's the vineyard began supplying grapes to prominent wineries such as Au Bon Climat, Foxen, Lane Tanner, The Hitching Post, and others. Owner Gerry Burk is a close friend of the late Jim Clendennen of Au Bon Climat and worked at Au Bon Climat until 2002 as vineyard manager.

Vinification

11 months in French oak (20% new)

Tasting notes

Deep gold with gorgeous aromas of early ripening pineapple and La France pears. Flavors of almond and caramel apple complement each other with vibrant, clear acidity.

Producer Description

Creating Wines with a True Reflection of Terrior

Alta Maria is a small, artisan winery focusing on producing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the cold and oceanic Santa Maria Valley appellation in Santa Barbara County. Founded by 9th Generation Californian James Ontiveros, and Winemaker and long-time college friend Paul Wilkins, Alta Maria’s wines are inspired by the old world regions of France and are classic examples of purity, balance and complexity. They strive to make the best wines possible in a very conscientious manner and employ organic and sustainable practices leaving no indelible mark on the people and places around us.

The name “Alta Maria” refers to the upper Santa Maria River, which James’ ancestor, Don Juan Pacifico Ontiveros crossed on Saint Mary’s Day, 1855, as he drove cattle from Southern California to his new home at Rancho Tepusquet – now home to some of the world’s most renowned vines. The picturesque river flowing through the valley was the force responsible for sustaining ranch life in those early days.

The artwork for Alta Maria Vineyards features hand-hewn iron nails used by homesteaders in Santa Maria before the Industrial Revolution introduced mass-produced, machine-cut nails. Despite its lowly function, each nail is unique from the next according to the conditions in which it was made and the expertise of the craftsman.