Racines emerges as a collaborative endeavor spearheaded by Étienne de Montille, Brian Sieve of Burgundy, and Rodolphe Péters of Champagne. Originating from an exploratory journey through California and Oregon, Étienne and Brian unearthed the ideal setting for their inaugural venture beyond France within the precision and finesse of Santa Rita Hills.
Joined by Rodolphe Péters a year later, the trio set out to craft a selection of sparkling wines, further enhancing their range within the Santa Rita Hills. Uniting their distinct expertise in handcrafting wines of purity and transparency, they established a collection of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that epitomizes the essence of Burgundy, Champagne, and California.
For Étienne and Rodolphe, Racines represents a canvas for innovation, unburdened by the weight of tradition prevalent in their respective villages. Rooted in the ocean-driven cool-climate of the Santa Rita Hills, the Racines collection embodies their collective multi-generational wisdom, showcasing the region's prowess in producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
These wines bear the unmistakable imprint of kindred spirits, driven by a shared vision of meticulous craftsmanship and precision. While honoring the unique terroir of Santa Rita Hills, Racines wines offer a distinctive expression, distinguished by their whole-cluster fermentation for Pinot Noirs, bestowing elegance and spiciness, and Chardonnays, nurtured in ancient marine sea-beds, exuding energy and transparency. Crafted with centuries of Burgundian and Champagnes winemaking expertise, Racines wines stand as a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence.
The wines underwent fermentation in a harmonious blend of 500L puncheons and 228L barriques, with approximately 10% new oak influence. Following a gentle maturation of just under a year in barrel, the wines, together with their lees, transitioned to tank for an additional five months of cellaring. This meticulous process reflects our belief in showcasing the full potential of the region.
This wine gracefully matured for 11 months, embracing the subtle influence of 10% new French oak, before culminating its aging journey with 5 months of refinement in stainless steel.
As for the whereabouts of Domaine Racines, our vineyards thrive in the Santa Rita Hills, nestled within the esteemed Santa Ynez Valley appellation of Santa Barbara County on the sun-kissed Central Coast of California.