1998 Chardonnay McCrea Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 1998 Chardonnay McCrea Vineyard (made from an old, low producing Wente clone) exhibits a striking minerality in its lemony, buttery, citrusy style. Full-bodied and complex, it is reminiscent of a grand cru Chassagne-Montrachet. The wine, which becomes more complex in the glass, is powerful, rich, concentrated, and well-balanced. It should drink well for 5-7 years. (release date 11/00) Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Butterscotch, Indian spices and an exotic hint of mango on the nose. Fat and voluminous; quite full and rich but rather monolithic today despite its obvious intensity. Slow-building, mouthstaining finish features strong soil tones of minerals and lime skin. This really needs a couple years of patience to assume its adult form.
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.