The 2021 Ramey Chardonnay Russian River Valley is a distinguished white wine hailing from the Russian River Valley sub-appellation within Sonoma, California. Produced by Ramey, this Chardonnay stands out with its 13.5% alcohol content and traditional cork closure, reflecting the winery's commitment to quality.
This vintage has garnered high praise from professional reviewers, with the Wine Spectator awarding it a score of 94. According to MW from Wine Spectator, this Chardonnay is a "powerful version" that offers "mouthwatering lemon curd, lime blossom and mandarin orange flavors" complemented by "notes of fresh-grated ginger and lemon verbena." The review highlights the wine's "sea salt minerality" which "gains momentum on the finish," and notes that the "toasted green tea, citrus zest and white pepper linger" on the palate. The reviewer suggests that this wine is best enjoyed now through 2030.
Wine Enthusiast gave an even more impressive score of 95, with Jim Gordon describing the wine as "both agile and relaxed." Gordon praises its "well-balanced, vibrant and concentrated" nature, noting layers of "crisp apple, pastry crust and lemon curd" underpinned by "snappy acidity." He also emphasizes the "fairly rich texture and medium body" of this Chardonnay, culminating in a "creamy-tangy finish" that "lingers a long time."
In the review from Jeb Dunnuck, Audrey Frick awarded the wine a score of 92. Frick notes that the 2021 Chardonnay Russian River Valley "takes on a little more ripe fruit and roundness" with flavors of "ripe yellow apple, chamomile, and melon rind." The wine is described as having a "rounded mouthfeel" and a fuller body, with a "supple, silky smooth texture" that features "ripe pear, fresh earth, and a touch of almond." Frick recommends drinking this wine over the next 5-6 years.
Overall, the 2021 Ramey Chardonnay Russian River Valley is a well-crafted wine that has earned high marks for its complexity, balance, and lingering finish. Its blend of vibrant fruit flavors and rich texture make it a standout choice for Chardonnay enthusiasts.