2018 La Jota Chardonnay W.S. Keyes Vineyard
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Tasting notes
You don’t see many Chardonnays from Howell Mountain, but don’t let that stop you, the 2018 Chardonnay W.S. Keyes Vineyard is terrific and well worth seeking out. Revealing a medium/lighter gold hue as well as an exotic nose of orange blossom, melon, honeysuckle, and white flowers, this beauty hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a textured, rounded mouthfeel, integrated acidity, and a great finish. This rich, textured Chardonnay stays nicely balanced and is certainly a joy to drink. It picks up a touch of hazelnut on the finish with time in the glass and should drink nicely for 4-5 years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2018 W.S. Keyes Chardonnay is so distinctive. Bright, translucent and full of energy, the 2018 sizzles with tension. Blocking the malolactic fermentation brings out a range of citrus and mineral flavors. Lemon oil, crushed rocks, mint and sage open up in the glass, but it is the wine's textural feel and mountain character that impress most. Don't miss it.
The 2018 Chardonnay W.S. Keyes was fermented and aged for 22 months in French oak barrels, 11% new. There was no malolactic. It sashays out of the glass with gorgeous lemon tart, grapefruit and white peach notes plus hints of orange blossoms, fresh ginger and toasted almonds. Medium-bodied, elegant and refreshing, it delivers intense citrus and spice layers with a long, tangy finish. 486 cases were made.