Wines Unspecified Tyler - Sanford & Benedict Vineyard - 2020

Viniou Reviews

The 2020 Tyler Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Cuvée is an exemplary expression of Californian winemaking, offering a captivating white wine crafted from grapes sourced in one of the region’s most storied vineyards. While the precise varietal blend isn't specified, Sanford & Benedict vineyard is renowned for its exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with Chardonnay being the flagship white varietal in this area. The 2020 vintage in California benefited from a relatively moderate growing season, allowing for slow, even ripening and complex flavour development. The wine likely underwent careful vinification, possibly including barrel fermentation and ageing on the lees, techniques frequently employed to enhance texture, complexity, and aromatic nuance in premium Californian whites.

Situated in the Santa Rita Hills within California’s diverse AVA landscape, the Sanford & Benedict vineyard is celebrated for its maritime influence and cool-climate conditions. The region is distinguished by its transverse mountain ranges, which funnel Pacific breezes inland, creating ideal conditions for Chardonnay thanks to the extended ripening period. The soils are primarily composed of marine sediment and limestone, contributing to a pronounced minerality and finesse in the finished wines. The area’s viticultural history is relatively recent, yet it has swiftly established a world-class reputation for its distinct, terroir-driven expressions.

For food pairing, this white wine would shine alongside a range of delicately flavoured seafood dishes, such as grilled halibut, seared scallops, or a fresh Dungeness crab salad. Its balance of acidity and texture would also make it a wonderful match for roast chicken with herbes de Provence or a creamy mushroom risotto. To showcase local pairings, you could try it with Californian goat cheese or an artichoke and avocado salad, both highlighting the wine’s freshness and purity.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10-12°C. This temperature will allow the complex bouquet and layered palate to fully unfold, revealing the subtle minerality and vibrant fruit character that are hallmarks of top-tier Santa Rita Hills whites.