2012 Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
The 2012 Chardonnay Bien Nacido Vineyards opens with extraordinary, nuanced aromatics laced with a a slight hint of reduction. Juicy apricot, peach, slate and chamomile meld together effortlessly in the glass. The 2012 is oily and viscous on the palate, yet also very much medium in body, an attractive combination to say the least. The persistent, creamy finish is a thing of beauty. This is fabulous juice. The 2012 emerges from a late 1970s planting of Clone 4 Chardonnay and spent 11 months in barrel followed by four months in tank.
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Just as good as the Solomon Hills release, the 2012 Chardonnay Bien Nacido (fermented and aged 16 months in 33% new French oak) offers classic apple, white flower, lemon curd and crushed-rock characteristics in a clean, elegant and balanced profile. It too gains depth and richness in the glass, has excellent acidity and a terrific finish. It's another classic Chardonnay from this estate that does everything right. While I'd lean toward drinking bottles over the coming 4-5 years, I'm sure this will hold for longer.
Light gold. Fresh pear and melon on the lively nose, with notes of orange peel, melon and smoky minerals adding complexity. Juicy and plump, offering vibrant orchard and pit fruit flavors and a hint of dusty minerality that adds cut and nerve. Shows very good energy and breadth, along with a smoky mineral note, on the lingering finish.