Exceptional... A Stunning Chardonnay
Like so many of the small, family run wineries that have sprung up in Sonoma over the last decade, Peter Paul Wines started as the dream of someone with a passion for wine and a successful career in another industry, and came together as a second career for owner Peter Paul. Sourcing fruit from some of the finest vineyards in Napa And Sonoma, Peter Paul has been able to produce wonderful wines, and we were particularly impressed with one of their Chardonnay’s; when we found out we would be able to offer it for less than $30, we jumped at the chance.
The 2009 Peter Paul Mill Station Road Chardonnay, from a cool pocket of the Russian River Valley, is medium straw in color. The nose both classy and classic, with lemon, paraffin, pear, green apple, wet slate and brioche, beautifully representing both Chardonnay and the cool climate in which it was grown. The palate is rich and fruity, with melon, lime, kiwi and ripe tropical fruit flavors, underpinned by just a touch of spicy French oak. Powerful yet lively, this is a beautiful example of California Chardonnay that should please those who like richer California Chardonnay, yet without turning off those whose palate leans in a more European direction. Break out the crab cakes or lobster tail, and enjoy them with a glass of this stunning Chardonnay!
Technical Data:
Appellation: Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
100% French Oak
1000 Cases Produced
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.
97 Points
Aromas of blackberries, graphite, and crushed rock, along with cedar, tobacco leaf, cassis, and a medley of dry herbs and spice.
A substantial mouthfeel, full-bodied structure, firm tannins gracefully interweave, establishing a flawless equilibrium of acidity and pleasing fruit. Well-balanced acidity collaborate harmoniously to accentuate the intricate flavors of berry compote, spices, and oak nuances reminiscent of mocha.
95 Points
This stellar Napa Valley Red Blend marries lush plum and cherry with Malbec's dark berry depth and Petit Verdot's structure and spice. Layered with notes of blackberry, violet, and cocoa, this silky wine finishes with smooth tannins and a whisper of toasted oak. Robust and mouth-filling, with spicy nuances, smooth tannins, firm structure, and a long lingering finish.
97 Points
Lush and fleshy, with cassis, boysenberry, and blackberry notes guided by hints of alder and mesquite. Stays open but defined through the finish, with a buried hint of sweet tobacco. A rich, layered beast, this has a nose rife with currants, blackberries, vanilla, and light toast with flavors of mocha, plum, and Bing cherry that mingle harmoniously on the tongue.
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.
98 Points
Deep purple hue and an alluring aromatic profile of fresh blue fruits and delicate violets. On the palate, it delivers a seamless and layered texture, framed by supple, polished tannins and a refined sense of balance. Elegantly structured, it offers remarkable purity and finesse, finishing with graceful length and poise.
