The Hilt Old Guard Chardonnay 2010

A stony coolness from the combination of the old vines and the stainless ferments brings a level of restraint and austerity that adds elegance to the layers that quickly build up on the palate. Fruit density from the low yielding vines and toasty notes from the barrel ferments add richness and length. For a cool climate chardonnay it displays remarkable amounts of fruit alongside the expected notes of citrus, stone and oyster shell brininess.

Armed with a degree in Soil Science from the University of Vermont and Vintages at Staglin, in Napa, California and Craggy Range in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, Matt Dees has an intrinsic feel for wine, from dirt to glass. Curious and experimental by nature, Matt's approach to winemaking is grounded in the vineyard first and foremost: attuned to the vines, the weather, the soil, Matt seems almost to be a part of the vineyard itself. His attention to the subtle differences found between chardonnay and pinot noir due to clonal selections and site informs the sides of The Hilt's philosophy. And last but not least, Matt's fine hand with the wines in the cellar allows the precise expression of both Old Guard characteristics and Vanguard elements to emerge. When Matt's not exploring this duality in chardonnay and pinot noir, he can be found making the wines for its sister winery—Jonata.