This white blend is always fascinating, and this vintage's 50% Pinot Gris, 40% Pinot Blanc and 10% Aligote combination offers warm rich aromas of hazelnut and creme brûlee that are cut by crushed chalk and lemon rind. It lands on the palate with a baked pastry warmth but then proves quite textural and taut with lime spray and herb flavours.
The name Hildegard is a salute to the history of Burgundy and to her husband the King of the Franks, Charlemagne. A wine named after an Empress has to be exquisite. This distinctive blend of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Aligote is barrel fermented and gets extra barrel and bottle time. Combining a unique blend with long term barrel aging made something special. The lovely aroma of vanillin and hazelnuts from the oak and the mouth-coating richness makes for a wine that seems like a top-notch Chardonnay. The fruit profile is more melony than Chardonnay and the aromas are more flowery than Chardonnay. Food matches that work with Chardonnay would work fine with Hildegard.
Type: White Wine
Style: Buttery and Complex White
Country: USA
Region: Santa Barbara County
Blend: Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Aligote
Vintage: 2021
ABV: 13.5%
Size: 75cl
Farming: Sustainable
Winemaking: Conventional
Vegan: Not certified