91 Points - Wine Enthusiast
91 Points - Vinous
Sierra Madre Vineyard experiences ample fog and cool breezes funneled directly from the Pacific coastline which makes for very slow ripening and well developed flavors with great depth.
Barrel fermentation and subsequent sur lie aging give this wine a rich and creamy texture. The extended ripening process delivers aromas of a ripe asian pear, wet stone and citrus that are followed by flavors of creamy vanilla, apple pie and pear. Best when served lightly chilled, this wine is smooth, luscious and eminently drinkable.
Dried lemons, poached apple, buttered toast and sandalwood converge for a classic yet expertly restrained nose on this bottling from a historic vineyard. The palate is crisp, fresh, ripe and savory all at once, presenting flavors of Asian pear, nectarine and Rainier cherry. ~ Wine Enthusiast
...offers a classic expression of this Santa Maria site in its bright orchard fruit, lemon confit and white flowers, with a hint of new French oak that adds further shades of dimension. The Sierra Madre is all about nuance, and there is plenty of that here. ~ Antonio Galloni's Vinous
Appellation: Santa Maria Valley
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Vineyard Source: 100% Sierra Madre Vineyard (Block 210)
Harvest Dates: 9/12/17
Aging: 100% barrel fermented & aged for 9 months in 30% new French oak
Cooperage: Mercurey, Boutes
Harvest Brix: 24.0
Acid: 0.786 g/100ml
pH: 3.26
Alcohol: 14.1%
Production: 350 cases
92 Points
Aromas of blackberry, dried fig, black cherry, blackberry coulis, toasted vanilla, and a hint of cigar box. The palate offers rich and velvety tannins, dark chocolate-covered cherries, black plum, mixed berry pie and toasted walnut. Long and expressive with loads of flavor.
94 Points, Wine Enthusiast
This opulent wine opens with aromas of blackberry, black plum, violets and spice on the nose. Flavors on the palate of dark cherry, sarsaparilla and orange zest wrap around dried tobacco leaf, malt chocolate and toasted vanilla, with a long, supple finish.
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