2012 Estate Chardonnay

The brilliant 2012 Chardonnay Estate (740 cases) also spent 13 months in barrel (40% new) and was bottled unfined and unfiltered. In 2012, the Estate Vineyard was 7 years of age, and is planted with the Old Wente selection known as the Hyde clone as well as some of the Mt. Eden selection from that iconic winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Elegant as well as powerful, this beautiful Chardonnay exhibits notes of lemon custard, spring flowers, citrus blossoms, orange marmalade, melons and white peaches. The acidity is crisp and well-integrated, and the overall impression is one of beautiful, full-bodied, aromatic and persistent richness. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years.

Another gorgeous wine, the 2012 Chardonnay Estate is gorgeous in this vintage. All the elements fall into place in a gracious, beautifully textured Chardonnay. The typical body of the wine is quite evident, but the 2012 has a measure of depth and richness that balance the structural elements quite nicely. The 2012 impresses for its harmony and overall sense of balance. I especially like the brightness and energy here.

Notes of flint, grapefruit, and light grassy accents carry through rich texture, and a persistent palate presence in the DuMol Estate Chardonnay. This wine offers a nice balance of full flavour with lots of movement, mouthwatering juiciness, and a saline crunch. Will continue to develop with age. Jan 2015, www.jancisrobinson.com, Drink: 2015-2020