region: Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California, United States
Grape(s): Chardonnay
Winemaker: Justin Willett
Farming: practicing organic
Tyler Winery is helmed by winemaker extraordinaire Justin Willett. His signature restrained, European style raised a lot of eyebrows when he started at the height of high alcohol and mass extraction winemaking in California. Planted in 1971, the Sanford and Benedict Vineyard has for many years been the quintessential site for producing the highest quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Grapes are pressed whole cluster into tank and complete malolactic conversion followed by 10 months lees aging in barrel. The nose and palate are expressive of
meyer lemon
,
beeswax
, and a
nutty
note that accompanies a long, acidic finish.
Pairing: Julia Child’s Chicken with Mushroom Cream Sauce
