The new release of Hunter Hill Vineyard & Winery’s estate-grown Chardonnay 2014 is a special achievement for winery owners Christine and Vann Slatter.
“We are proud to present our first estate-grown Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay,” they say. Other Chardonnays produced by the winery have been made from fruit harvested elsewhere, and they are thrilled to now be tilling the soil around their very own Chardonnay grapes.
Aging in stainless steel has resulted in a bright and vibrant wine with zesty nuances. Green apple, Meyer lemon, pineapple, and a touch of caramel add an abundance of flavor—and it pairs well with many foods, especially seafood, chicken and soft cheeses. This unoaked wine ($35) is just lovely by itself, too. Think of coming home from work and opening up a superb wine like this Chardonnay. Only 50 cases were produced, so I wouldn’t hesitate in getting some.
Looking out over the property on a recent visit, I admire all the work it has taken the Slatters over the years to make this “Garden of Eden.” But the whole estate is now up for sale as the couple is moving on to other things. It includes nearly six acres of vineyard land with ponds, a barbecue area, a garden, chicken coops (eggs and fresh produce are sold at the winery), a house and pool; plus wine-tasting room, vineyard tractors and more. Check the website for additional info.
In the meantime, until the winery is sold, the Slatters are still enjoying producing their award-winning wines and running the tasting room.
Hunter Hill Vineyard & Winery, 7099 Glen Haven Road, Soquel, 465-9294. hunterhillwines.com. Tasting room hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Twisted Roots’ Third Annual Fundraiser for MEarth
Sip award-winning wines and savor small bites to support MEarth, an environmental education nonprofit with roots in Carmel. Twisted Roots in Carmel Valley will hold its third annual fundraiser with Chef Brandon Miller of Mundaka in Carmel doing a paella cooking demonstration—and offering attendees tastes of paella. The event is 5:30-7 p.m. on Aug. 25 and tickets are $50 per person. Reservations required. Visit twistedrootsvineyard.com for more info.
