The Chimney Rock Estate is blessed with a diversity of soil and topography that breeds complexity in our wines. To the east, our steep hills and shallow soils bring us density and power. On the north end, our proximity to the Palisades gifts us with ripeness and purity of fruit. To the south, our proximity to the bay brings us breezes that add the nuance of cooler climate–adding hints of dried herbs and mint. It is this diversity that has enabled us to represent the quintessence of Stags Leap District–the tension between grace and power, the balance of finesse and muscle. We are delighted to share our 35th vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon: Its beauty proclaims we are here to stay.

The beginning of the 2019 growing season was defined by copious rainfall and late soil moisture. The long, warm summer saw very few extreme heat events, with foggy mornings setting the stage for vibrant and expressive wines. The long, relatively mild finish to the season, not without its moments of unpredictability, helped to preserve freshness and finesse in the fruit with abundant hang time teasing out great color, structure and soft tannins. All in all, exceptional fruit with bright acidity and ample texture promises an amazing vintage.

Our 2018 Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay comes exclusively from our two estate vineyards in the heart of this cool-climate appellation. The 2018 vintage began in early September and was cool and long growing season. This resulted in slow ripening and mineral-driven wines with plenty of richness and concentration.