Bentrock is sui generis – the vineyard’s place in the far southwest of Santa Rita Hills AVA is home to some of the most dramatic views and weather conditions along the entire appellation. Prodded with blistering wind, its vines see consistently cool temperatures and just a few hours of growth each day. Year after year Bentrock produces Chardonnays of staggering concentration. Rajat smiles as he confesses, “It’s a magical spot.” In a separate conversation Sashi uses similar terms. “With Bentrock the stars aligned.”

With a barely golden hue and a touch of spritz in the glass, this 11-year-old Bentrock brings the freshness and ageability the vineyard is known for on sight alone. Gunflint, raw cream, candied green apple and ginger lead the nose, heady and once again showing no signs of fatigue. It’s a mix of high and low pitches, with acidity and supple texture balancing one another as deeper, honeyed fruit notes come with time in the glass. Drink now or give it more time — there’s no rush here. (11/3/2023)