Sandhi Sta. Rita Hills Romance Chardonnay 2020

A younger planting below Domaine de la Côte, Romance exudes the same near-paradoxical freshness and strength of the vines above it. The intensity of this south-facing, wind-battered Chardonnay is immediately felt. Orchard fruit and flint lead the nose while citrus blossoms recalling the bright, vernal label explode on the palate. Mineral, lithe, with incredible depth and texture, rich fruit, nuttiness and acidity frame the entire package. The polished finish carries these elements for minutes. Though outgoing and ready, this cuvée still has so much to offer in the coming years. It is a refined, joyful wine, conveyed with power and trueness to site.

98/100 - The 2020 Chardonnay Romance is a new wine from Sandhi, sourced from vines grown at the Domaine de la Cote estate vineyards. The nose is bright and arresting, flaunting lemon peel, chalk and pastry crust. Its unabashedly concentrated citrus fruits are tempered by nervy acidity, and it has a very long, texturally compelling finish. There's something a bit magical about the expression this vintage. 198 cases were made. - Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate

95/100 - The 2020 Chardonnay Romance emerges from a small shelf at Domaine de la Cote just below Memorious. Rich, deep and super concentrated, the 2020 possesses striking resonance right out of the gate. Lemon confit, marzipan, flowers and white pepper fill out the layers. This generous, beautifully textured Chardonnay is another lights-out wine from Sandhi. Superb. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous