2005 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast
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Tasting notes
(from Ritchie Vineyard; aged in Francois Freres barrels, 90% new) Slightly hazy yellow-gold color. Enticing nose combines ripe pineapple, ripe citrus and spices. Dense and thick but minerally and fresh, with sweet tropical fruit, apricot and spice flavors enlivened by pineappley acidity. A big boy at 15.2% alcohol but with sound backbone.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2005 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast (1,100 cases) exhibits wonderful tropical fruit notes interwoven with pineapple, buttered citrus, and leesy, brioche-like characteristics. This complex effort is capable of lasting for 7-8 years. Most of the fruit for this cuvee comes from an old Wente clone planted in the Ritchie Vineyard. Previously recommended: 2003 Merlot (92), 2003 Proprietary Red Wine (94). Tel. (707) 255-2321; Fax (707) 255-6786