2019 Estate Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
0.8 ha on sandy clay surrounded by redwoods. An east-facing, dry-farmed site 12 miles from the ocean that sees lots of fog, planted in 2005. Andy Smith wanted to do something unique so the vineyard was planted with 9,000 rather than 3,000 vines per hectare – more than a traditional Burgundy vineyard. Forest and vine density brings lots of shading to vines. Lots of dew. Oak from central France, with very delicate toasting always for the Estate Vineyard Chardonnay. Just light lees in 2019 (cf all lees in 2020). This is notably riper than the 2020 with much lower acid. There’s a certain pear-juice flavour. The finish is a little short and the fruit less juicy than the 2020. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2019 Chardonnay Estate Vineyard features white peaches and baked quince with a streak of flint and spice, plus touches of spring flowers. The medium-bodied palate is lush and satiny, with abundant, spicy fruits, focused acidity and honeyed nuances driving the long finish. This energetic, powerful expression deserves another 2-3 years in bottle to unfold.
A pretty nose of lemon curd, honeysuckle and cedar. Full-bodied with rock-salt salinity. Good, steady intensity with notes of toasted sage and baked grapefruit on the palate. Drink now or hold.
A riveting Chardonnay, the 2019 Chardonnay DuMOL Estate Vineyard reveals a vivid, light gold hue to go with a crisp, ultra-pure nose of crushed lemons, white flowers, honeysuckle, and chalky minerality. Playing in the medium-bodied end of the spectrum, it's flawlessly balanced and has integrated acidity as well as a great finish. This is classic DuMOL elegance and purity paired with terrific density and concentration. It's going to benefit from a year or two in bottle and have a decade of longevity.