Pacific-Fog Chardonnay — Sandhi Sta. Rita Hills 2021

Tasting Notes

This one pours a pale straw with a hint of green, whispering “I’m here for clarity, not butter.” The nose delivers Meyer lemon peel, crisp green apple, subtle ginger and white-flower notes, and that signature “wet sea-stone” minerality. On the palate: pure, laser-sharp acidity, a sleek texture courtesy of 10 months in 500 L puncheons + 6 months in tank, and a finish that lingers with sea-salt spray and bright citrus lift. (“More mineral-forward, zippy style, instead of opulence and weight.”) 

Meet the Winemaker

Sandhi, co-founded by Rajat Parr & Sashi Moorman, picks grapes from top-flight sites in Sta. Rita Hills (including Domaine de la Côte) and treats Chardonnay like the precision instrument it deserves to be. Indigenous yeasts, minimal intervention, and years of puncheon aging = California Chardonnay with backbone. 

Wine Specs

• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay 

• Vintage: 2021

• Region: Sta. Rita Hills AVA, Santa Barbara County, California, USA 

• Production / Aging: Aged 10 months in 500 L puncheons + 6 months in tank (from producer info) 

• ABV: Approx. 12.9%

• Bottle Size: 750 ml

• Serving Temp: 10-12 °C — keep it crisp and let the terroir shine.

Critic Reviews

• Decanter – 95 pts: “Tasted early 2023, reductive veil still present but sleek, richly textured with pulsating acidity and salty mineral intensity.” 

• James Suckling – 94 pts: “Alluring aromas of white peach, freshly baked bread, panna cotta and matchstick with savory undertones.” 

• Wine Advocate – 93 pts: “…accessible now, but built to age. A great showing for the region.” 

Food Pairings

• Fresh oysters or steamed clams — ocean + minerality = match.

• Herb-roasted chicken with lemon & thyme — clean, elegant, effortless.

• Sushi (especially white fish) or sashimi — subtlety meets precision.

• Soft goat cheese or lightly aged brie — texture and acidity sync.

• Mild cream-sauce pasta with lemon zest — keeps it classy.

Why You Need This Bottle

Because you’re through with oaky overkill and butter-bomb Chardonnays. This bottle says: I know climate, site and technique, and I don’t need wood spanks. It’s cool-climate California, modern but rooted — refined and drink-now. Show up with this and you’ll look like you know what you’re doing.

Add Sandhi Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills 2021 to your cart — club members get 10% off and other perks. Elevate your Chardonnay selection.