93 Points - James Suckling
93 Points - The Wine Independent
Delicious now, or perfect for aging in your cellar. Enjoy with herb-crusted pork ribs, grilled chicken Caesar salad, poached salmon and more.
Vineyard: This Chardonnay thrives American Canyon and Carneros vineyards in the southern tip of Napa Valley, near San Pablo Bay, which spills into the San Francisco Bay. The cool maritime breezes and morning fog allow the grapes to slowly ripen to develop complex flavors while maintaining a pleasing natural acidity that is impossible to achieve in warmer areas. Farmed all naturally, without artificial pesticides or herbicides, and they are certified organic.
Vintage: 2020 was one of the most rewarding vintages for the winery. One of the hottest vintages on record with multiple heat waves well over 100 degrees, vintage 2020 was also accompanied by exceptionally low rainfall: 50-60% below average. Despite the heat and drought, our vines were well prepared for the stress. Due to low rainfall in 2020, the vines prepared themselves for drought by producing less leaves, which requires less water. The heat and drought produced exceptionally low yields but with excellent quality - great acid and freshness in white wines.
Alcohol: 13.5%
Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Appellation: Napa Valley Estate
Harvest date: Aug. 20 - Sept. 9, 2020
Sugar: 22.5 Brix (average)
Fermentation: indigenous yeast
Total acid: 6.6 g/L
pH: 3.29
Aging: Fermented and aged 10 months
Type of oak: French oak; 40% new, 60% neutral
Bottling date: June 2021
90 Points
Dark ruby red in the glass, and good swirl on the nose offers generous aromatics of cassis, black cherry and spice. It's supple body, gives way to red and dark fruit like plum, blueberry compote, dried prune, with anise and light spice flavors on the finish.
92 Points
A Nils' Venge Cabernet Sauvignon never disappoints! This powerhouse opens with pleasant aromas of evergreen, dark cocoa and coriander that delightfully entice your senses. Its enveloping and bold mouthfeel are outstanding, as deep tannins dance around on the palate, finishing with flavors of baked rhubarb, ground peppercorn and all-spice.
Exceptional
Aromas of bright oak, essence of lilac, toasted brioche and sage delight your senses. Flavors are just as complex with hints of soft melted butter, quince, fig, and a touch of lavender that titillate your taste buds. Its delightful texture is balanced by great acidity, leading to a long satisfying finish. Truly a chardonnay lovers Chardonnay.
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