2012 Kongsgaard Chardonnay

Lemon oil, almonds, hazelnuts, white flowers, mint and tropical fruit meld together in the 2012 Chardonnay. This is one of the more voluptuous, overt young vintages of the Napa Valley Chardonnay I can remember tasting. At the same time, veins of salinity notes underpin the finish, adding a welcome element of brightness.

The full-bodied 2012 Chardonnay reveals more buttery popcorn and honeysuckle characteristics, but there is no doubting the minerality, great fruit, super-freshness and 40+-second finish. Drink now through 2024.

(not yet sulfured): Ripe stone fruits, lemon rind and a distinctly primary leesy quality on the complex nose. Then incredibly thick and smooth in the mouth, but with a brisk candied orange peel element and vibrant acidity giving lift to the concentrated stone fruit and vanilla custard flavors. Wonderfully harmonious for a chardonnay of its impressive size. Broader and grander than the very strong 2011 version.