California’s Central Coast, with its cool, marine-influenced climate has garnered a great deal of attention for its Pinot Noir, and while it’s easy to taste why, Burgundy’s other noble grape, Chardonnay, fares equally well in this region, yet doesn’t get as much hype. For the consumer, this means that there are great deals to be had, and that’s what we are always looking for at WineHeist.
The 2007 Fess Parker “Ashley’s Vineyards Chardonnay is nearly gold in color, with a hint of olive. Intense aromas of apple, lemon peel, pine nut and almond stream from the glass. The rich, round palate is loaded with apricot, citrus, green apple, butter, and spice. This chardonnay is definitely full steam ahead, powerful and full-bodied, with incredible intensity for a wine of this price. This is a chardonnay to give to your friends who claim white wine is too light, and watch their surprise. It also needs to be paired with rich food, as it could easily overpower a delicate fish or poultry dish. Try it with soft, ripe cheese, or pasta with heavy cream sauce. This one is definitely not for the faint of heart!
Vineyard Source: 100% Rancho Las Hermanas Vineyard (Formerly Ashley’s) In The Sta. Rita Hills
Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Barrel Aging: 10 Months Sur Lie In 40% New French Oak
Cooperage: Boutes, T.Mercurey, Sirugue & Francois Frerer
Harvest Date: October 25th
Brix: 23.5 – 25.6
Alcohol: 14.1% Alcohol By Volume
P.H.: 3.53
T.A.: .67 G/100Ml
Production: 3613-6 Pack Cases
96 Points
Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, huckleberry, floral violet and savory spice. The palate is full and layered, with robust, age-worthy tannins and gorgeous flavors of dark berries, mocha and chocolate-covered cherries mingling with hints of graphite, fig and fine leather. Smooth tannins, firm structure and silky texture coat the palate on route to a long, generous finish.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
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