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!
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90 Points
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94 Points
Juice explodes right out of the glass with its dark purple in color and bursting aromas of black cherry jam, boysenberry, raspberry and wild cherry interlaced with hints of baking spice, espresso bean, and toasted nut. The palate is ripe and juicy with flavors of dark cherry, huckleberry and raspberry perfectly integrated with notes of spice, dark chocolate, and a kiss of toasty oak.
94 Points
Deep red-purple with aromas of black currents, blackberry, plum, chocolate, earthy forest floor, licorice, graphite, and subtle floral notes of violet, spice and cracked pepper. The palate is full, structured and balanced with blackberry, currant, black cherry fruit with notes of earth, firm acid and silky tannins. Finishes big with blackberry fruit and peppery spice.
