Double Gold - 2011 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
Manchester Ridge is one of the most spectacular vineyards I have ever visited, and at 2,000 feet in elevation looking out over the Pacific Ocean, it may have one of the best views in all of California. Fortunately, this vineyard is more than just a pretty face, as it produces outstanding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in eroded sandstone soils that really express the site in which they are grown. This vineyard’s unique topography places it above the fog coming off the ocean, which allows the grapes plenty of sun exposure. Without this, they wouldn’t be able to ripen given the cool temperatures at this elevation in Mendocino County. This mix of cooler weather and plenty of sun seems to be perfect for allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and develop plenty of flavor, without becoming over-ripe. In the capable hands of the winemaking team mat Willowbrook Cellars, the result is a delightfully unique Chardonnay that truly expresses this wonderful vineyard.
The 2008 Willowbrook Cellars Manchester Ridge Chardonnay is bright golden straw in color. The nose shows exotic aromas of melon, lime, and green apple, along with toasty, yeasty notes. The palate shows apple, lime and an almost Burgundian undertone of earth or mushroom, which is very unusual in California Chardonnay, Medium light in body yet with plenty of intensity, this is the perfect wine for people who are sick of the oaky, fruity chardonnays that can be so fatiguing for the palate as the warm summer months approach. At just $22 you will not find a more interesting example of the versatility and diversity of flavors of which Chardonnay is capable. Don’t miss out on this bargain!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Exceptional!
Reddish-purple in color with aromas of blackberry, plum, pomegranate, herbs de Provence, and licorice. The palate is full, structured and balanced with blackberry, currant, black cherry, cassis, and licorice that carries through, with notes of black pepper, mocha and chocolate. Very long, spicy, with a fruit-driven finish. Great aging potential.
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.
