90 points – Antonio Galloni's Vinous
As California's Central Coast region gains recognition, a lot has been made about the cooler Sta. Rita Hills AVA being perfect for Pinot. However, a few insightful critics, and several savvy winemakers, have realized that this area has great potential for Chardonnay as well, which in recent vintages has been realized with critically acclaimed Chardonnays. One such Chardonnay comes from one of our favorite producers, Fess Parker.
The 2013 Fess Parker Ashley's Chardonnay is bright yellow-gold. Ripe citrus fruits and melon on the perfumed nose. Fleshy and smooth in texture but lively as well, offering energetic orange, pear and honeydew flavors accented by hints of ginger and mace. Packs a punch but remains bright and lithe, with no excess fat. Finishes with very good focus and spicy persistence, the melon note repeating.
Vineyard Source: Ashley's Vineyard
Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills
Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Barrel Aging: 8 months in 51% New French oak, 12% in 1-year old & 37% in 2-year or older French oak barrels
Harvest Date: October 3 - October 18
Brix: 23.5-25.1
Alcohol: 14.1%
p.H.: 3.28
T.A.: 0.715 g/100ml
Production: 2062 cases
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.
91 Points
Shimmering ruby-purple hue. The nose is a walk through a damp Sonoma forest—mossy bark and wild earth—brightened by high-toned notes of cranberry sauce and blood orange. On the palate, it's generously long in the mouth, with good concentration. It's a masterclass in tension: intense, cherry and red current fruit meets dark spice and fine, sandy tannins.
96 Point Vintage
Entices with aromas of Bing cherry, raspberry, and cedar spice. Indicative of the cool vintage, the wine carries a freshness throughout. The palate offers a harmonious balance between bright red fruit, spice, and nicely woven tannins.
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.
