The 2013 Chardonnay was aged for 19 months in 80% new French oak but never reveals that it spent that length of time in so much oak. Crisp, elegant white peach, honeysuckle, and lemon honey are all present in this...
The 2013 Chardonnay was aged for 19 months in 80% new French oak but never reveals that it spent that length of time in so much oak. Crisp, elegant white peach, honeysuckle, and lemon honey are all present in this full-bodied, lovely, pure wine that only shows a whiff of vanillin. It is full-bodied, beautifully fresh, pure and vibrant. Drink it over the next 5-7 years. (My longevity curve on the top California Chardonnays continues to move to longer windows, which is certainly good news.) This famous vineyard in Carneros was first started by the Hudson family in 1981. These are some of the strongest wines I have yet tasted from them, thanks to winemaker Christopher Vandendriessche and consultant John Kongsgaard. - Robert Parker