2010 Freestone Vineyards Chardonnay

A bit more layered than the Pastorale, the 2010 Chardonnay Freestone Vineyards caresses the palate from beginning to end. Lemon, pastry, white flowers, crushed rocks and a whisper of French oak all emerge from the glass in the seamless, totally polished Chardonnay. The aromas and flavors remain bright, focused and beautifully articulated from start to finish. This is another fabulous wine from Joseph Phelps. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. Once again, I came away deeply impressed with the wines I tasted from Joseph Phelps and their Freestone Vineyards range. These are without question some of the most polished wines being made in the Sonoma Coast today. The 2011s, all of which I tasted from barrel, are also highly promising. The Pinots are quite savory and Syrah-like in this vintage. It will be interesting to see how they develop over the coming year. Tel: (707) 874-1010

Bright green-yellow. Vibrant aromas of lime, orange oil and flowers, plus a whiff of brioche. Tactile, juicy and crisp, with strong fruit-driven flavors of green tropical fruits, lemon and pineapple. Very good density and freshness here, but in a cooler style than the 2009 bottling.

The 2010 Chardonnay Freestone Vineyards is gorgeous. Subtle hints of oak frame expressive white stone fruits, citrus and floral notes in this impeccable, layered Chardonnay. Focus, delineation and superb overall balance are the hallmarks here. This is a fabulous showing from Phelps.