The 2021 Lewis Cellars Napa Chardonnay is a well-received white wine hailing from the North Coast of California, specifically the esteemed Napa region. Crafted by Lewis Cellars, this Chardonnay showcases a balanced profile of rich flavors and refreshing acidity, making it a noteworthy addition to any collection.
James Suckling, from jamessuckling.com, rated this wine a solid 92 points, highlighting its "toasty oak" and "spicy and creamy layer" that melds seamlessly with "lemon pastries, fine lees, and stones." Suckling noted the "rich, creamy and full-bodied palate" and appreciated its fresh, medium acidity, recommending it for immediate enjoyment.
Jeb Dunnuck provided an excellent review, awarding the wine 94 points on jebdunnuck.com. Dunnuck praised its "plush, up-front, medium-bodied style," with "gold apple-like fruit" and "spicy, oaky, toasty background notes." He commended its "terrific balance" and "clear, classy finish," deeming it a "rich, powerful Chardonnay" suitable for enjoying over the next 2-4 years.
Joe Czerwinski of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also gave the wine a commendable score of 92 points. He described it as "big and flavorful," with "scents of spicy oak, Bartlett pear, and grilled pineapple." Czerwinski appreciated its "medium to full-bodied" nature, noting it as "ripe and succulent but crisp at the same time," with notable "wet stone and bright citrus notes on the finish."
Wine Spectator's MW also rated this Chardonnay 92 points, noting its "rich and creamy" character, with "buttery overtones to the nutmeg, salted hazelnut, and praline notes." The core flavors of "ripe peach, apricot, and melon" are balanced by "fresh acidity," keeping the wine "light on its feet."
Wine Enthusiast's Jim Gordon gave the highest praise, scoring the wine 95 points. Gordon highlighted the "spicy, toasty oak" that complements the "rich, honeyed pear and pineapple flavors," providing "great depth and length." He recommended it for fans of big Chardonnay, noting its "baking spices, coconut, poached pears, and vanilla" as "practically irresistible."
With an alcohol content of 14.7% and sealed with a cork closure, the 2021 Lewis Cellars Napa Chardonnay stands out for its balance of richness and freshness, earning high marks from several respected reviewers.