2018 Chardonnay Rochioli

The 2018 Chardonnay Estate opens bright and fresh with scents of chamomile, quince, dried green herbs, baker’s yeast and a stony note. Light to medium-bodied, it’s bright and lifted in the mouth with fresh fruit character, a silken texture and uplifted finish.

Readers looking for a classic Russian River Chardonnay that has the textbook richness of the appellation yet stays fresh and vibrant will love the 2018 Chardonnay Russian River Valley. Coming from a mix of the single vineyards and aged 8 months in French oak, its lighter gold color is followed by a great nose of buttered pineapple, tart citrus, white flowers, and a kiss of honeysuckle. It's aromatic, has great purity, is medium-bodied, and finishes with bright acidity. In short, it's a terrific Chardonnay that will evolve for 5-7 years.

The 2018 Chardonnay Little Hill emerges from the oldest vines on the property, planted in 1972. In this range, the Little Hill stands out for its energy, tension and focus. Citrus peel, white flowers, mint and crushed rock all grace this nuanced, crystalline Chardonnay. This gorgeous, translucent Chardonnay shows the more finessed side of the Russian River Valley. (AG)