2002 Kistler Chardonnay Dutton Ranch
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Tasting notes
Good medium yellow; slightly hazy. Musky aromas of lemon peel, iodine, minerals and charred oak. Velvety-rich and sweet on the palate, but with a light touch. A seamless chardonnay that really dances on the palate, even if it doesn't offer quite the texture or intensity of the best 2002 chardonnays at this address. Finishes tight and youthfully dry, with slightly edgy acidity. This really calls for a couple years of cellaring.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Readers looking for more Meursault-like, roasted hazelnut, smokiness, tropical fruit and a leesy note to its medium to full-bodied, chunky, richly fruity style should check out the 2002 Chardonnay Dutton Ranch. An elegant example of this cuvee, but still typically California, it will drink well for 3-4 years. (Not yet released) Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709
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.