The 2021 Domaine Della Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay is a captivating white wine that exemplifies the excellence of California winemaking. With its beautiful golden hue and enticing aromas, this Chardonnay is a true delight for the senses.
Upon pouring, the wine reveals a shimmering pale gold color that hints at its luxurious character. The nose is immediately greeted by the seductive scents of ripe peaches, baked apples, and toasted hazelnuts. These aromas are complemented by delicate notes of custard and vanilla, adding depth and complexity to the bouquet.
On the palate, the wine displays a medium-to-full body that gracefully coats the mouth. The fresh stone fruit flavors take center stage, accompanied by delightfully toasty and flinty undertones. The vibrant acidity provides a lively backbone throughout the tasting experience, culminating in a laser-focused and flavorful finish that lingers on the palate.
Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this Chardonnay an impressive score of 94 points, praising its impeccable balance and the interplay between the fruit and oak characteristics. Jeb Dunnuck also lauds the wine, awarding it 93 points and describing its aromatics as pleasantly smoky and earthy, with a sunnier feel and a chalky texture.
The Wine Enthusiast gives this Chardonnay a score of 93 points, describing it as relaxed and luxurious, with a velvety smooth and super-concentrated profile. They suggest pairing it with sautéed scallops or sole in a beurre blanc sauce to enhance the experience. Wine Spectator also joins in the praise, awarding the wine 92 points and highlighting its terrific focus and creamy texture, along with vibrant flavors of lemon curd, tangy makrut lime, and green apple.
Crafted by Domaine Della in the prestigious Sonoma appellation, this Chardonnay showcases the exceptional quality of North Coast wines. With only 150 cases produced, this limited-edition wine is a true gem that deserves a place in any wine enthusiast's collection.
Whether enjoyed now or aged for further development, the 2021 Domaine Della Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay is a remarkable expression of California winemaking prowess. Savor it with good company and let its elegance and complexity transport you to the sun-kissed vineyards of Sonoma.