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
97 Points
Rich dark fruit flavors of blackberry and cherry with notes of baking spices, licorice, coffee, and chocolate that interlace seamlessly with complexity, creating a wine that is both structured and delightfully supple, achieving an ideal balance of tension and grace. Artfully composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon with 17% Cabernet Franc, resulting in harmonious depth and freshness.
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