The 2019 Mount Eden Chardonnay Santa Cruz Estate is a distinguished white wine from California's Santa Cruz Mountains. This Chardonnay, produced by Mount Eden, offers a complex profile balanced by acidity and minerality. The wine is cork-sealed and has an alcohol content of 14.0%.
A standout feature of this wine is its powerful ripeness and thrilling acidity, as noted by Decanter, which awarded it an impressive score of 95. The reviewer described it as "a masterful balance of pure, persistent citrus and orchard fruit against a deeply earthen, savoury core of minerality." The wine's fermentation and aging in new French oak add subtle smoky oak expressions, enhancing its richness and depth.
Wine Enthusiast's Matt Kettmann gave the 2019 Mount Eden Chardonnay a score of 94, highlighting its "crisp aromas of lemon glaze and lemongrass" and the "penetrating, citrus-driven acidity" that complements a chalky texture. Kettmann also noted flavors of honeydew and minty lemon, providing a refreshing sip.
Wine Spectator rated this Chardonnay 93 points, describing it as "vibrant and intense, with roasted nut and toasted spice overtones" that blend with plush peach, lemon curd, and marmalade notes. The wine is smooth and supple, with an elegant thread of acidity and a hint of rooibos tea on the finish. With 824 cases produced, it is suggested to drink now.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also gave it a 93-point score, with Matthew Luczy praising its "rich and golden" color and a nose featuring honey, cultured cream, toasted almonds, fresh flowers, and herbs. The palate is described as having "a round, rich and creamy frame outlined by soft but refreshing acidity," leading to a confectionary finish. Luczy notes that while the wine still needs some integration, it stands as a prime example of consistent quality from Mount Eden.
Overall, the 2019 Mount Eden Chardonnay Santa Cruz Estate is a well-crafted wine that combines vibrant acidity, complex flavors, and a refined texture, making it a notable example of high-altitude California Chardonnay.