2014 Chardonnay Sanford & Benedict
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Tasting notes
The 2014 Chardonnay Sanford & Benedict Vineyard - 31st Vintage has a captivating bouquet with lemon verbena, peach skin and linden and a touch of French patisserie in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with nicely integrated French oak, slightly waxy in texture with a persistent and pure finish. Wonderful. Tasted at the "Judgement of Clapham Junction" dinner in London.
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Average Score
Neal Martin
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
All of these latest Chardonnays from winemaker Jim Clendenen are outstanding. Starting out, the 2014 Chardonnay Sanford & Benedict Vineyard offers classic notes of cream corn, sautéed apple, white peach and flowers, with building richness and fabulous purity on the palate. Barrel-fermented and aged 20 months in 50% new French oak, it should have a decade of longevity.
The 2014 Chardonnay Sanford & Benedict Vineyard is rich, textured and absolutely gorgeous. Lemon confit, dried flowers, pastry and a hint of new oak all meld together in a sumptuous, textured Chardonnay that captures the essence of site. The French oak is a bit apparent at this stage, but another 6-12 months in bottle should do the trick. This is a superb wine from one of California's true heritage sites.