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
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.
