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
95 Points
Rich and full-bodied, packed with dark fruit flavors of blackberry, ripe plum, and dark cherry. Notes of cocoa, cedar, and warm spice add complexity, while firm tannins and a touch of volcanic minerality reflect the bold characteristics of Calistoga’s terroir. Full-bodied in texture, and remarkably velvety. The tannins gracefully interweave, establishing a flawless equilibrium of acidity and pleasing fruit.
92 Points
Deep floral notes (violets), blackberry, black cherry, and cassis. Driven by the mountain's steep, cool-climate terroir, it balances rich notes of blackberry and pomegranate seamlessly intertwined with dark plum, cocoa dust, and roasted mocha, hints of roasted mocha and spice undertones add depth to its complex profile, culminating in a bold, yet elegant finish.
95 Points
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