2009 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2009 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard emerges from a high elevation plot rich in volcanic soils with north and northeast exposures, all of which combine to give the wine its focused personality. Hints of smoke, minerals and spices add complexity on the finish. The Dinner is a bit reticent today, but it will be superb in another year or two. It is another striking wine.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2009 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard emerges from a high-elevation plot rich in volcanic soils with north and northeast exposures, all of which combine to give the wine its focused personality. Hints of smoke, minerals and spices add complexity on the finish. The Dinner is a bit reticent today, but it will be superb in another year or two. It is another striking wine. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. This is a dazzling set of Chardonnays and Pinots from Paul Hobbs. The wines are made with native primary and secondary fermentations, aged on their lees and bottled without fining of filtration. Readers may want to check out my video interview with Paul Hobbs on www.eroberparker.com for more details. Vintages 2009 and 2010 are both strong, but I find myself favoring the 2010s for their greater verve and focus. Either way, it is virtually impossible to go wrong with any of these new and upcoming releases. Tel. (707) 824-9879
Vivid yellow. Vibrant, mineral-dominated bouquet displays fresh pear, green apple, lemon and talc, along with a sexy floral quality and a touch of smoke. Racy citrus and floral flavors gain flesh with air, picking up juicy melon and candied ginger flavors and finishing with excellent cut. This offers a suave balance of energy and depth and is built for aging.
About the producer
Paul Hobbs is one of California wine’s biggest names. Twice named Wine Personality of the Year by Robert Parker, he joined Robert Mondavi in 1977, worked at Opus One and Simi before setting up his eponymous winery in 1991.