2017 Chardonnay Stone Flat Vineyard
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Tasting notes
"The Stone Flat Chardonnay is planted on the same soil as Durell—they are separated by a few feet—and picked at the same time," says winemaker Jason Kesner. "They're fermented in the same room and with the same barrel program, so the only difference between these two wines is the rootstock." The 2017 Chardonnay Stone Flat Vineyard has an uber-inviting nose with scents of honeycomb, peach cobbler, toasted hazelnut, quince, guava and a classy framing of baking spice with underlying mineral notions. It's medium-bodied with intense, savory-laced ripe fruits knit by rocky notions and tangy acidity, finishing long and layered.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Chardonnay Stone Flat Vineyard comes from the Durell Vineyard as well but is from a selection of only 420a rootstock, which results in a slightly lower pH as well as slightly better yields. It’s not far off the Durell Vineyard and offers impressive caramelized citrus, white flowers, brioche, and pineapple. It’s fresh, vibrant, and ethereal, and has a great finish.
The 2017 Chardonnay Stone Flat Vineyard emerges from parcels that are now technically in Durell and that are just across the road from the historic core of that site. Interestingly, the two Chardonnays are incredibly different. The Stone Flat Chardonnay is a decidedly richer and more powerful wine. Tangerine, hazelnut, dried flowers, mint and lightly honeyed notes give the Stone Flat a viscous, textured feel that is quite distinctive. Exotic and arresting in its beauty, the Stone Flat is compelling in 2017.
About the producer
Kistler’s Chardonnays are some of the world’s most sought-after. This cult Californian producer crafts small volumes of exceptional, rich and generous, yet mineral and precise wines. With almost the entire production sold directly to their mailing list, the wines are also incredibly hard to find.