2011 Red Car Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Picked at relatively low brix (22.8) for this vineyard, the 2011 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard exhibits a crisp, minerally, citrusy nose as only 35% new French oak was utilized. It offers notes of crushed seashells and lemon zest as well as a medium-bodied mouthfeel. Restraint and elegance are the hallmarks of this Chablis-like Chardonnay. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. Tel. (707) 829-8500
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2011 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard shows the pedigree of this great site in its explosive, generous personality. Apricots, peaches, flowers and sweet spices all flesh out in this unbelievably beautiful, soft Chardonnay. The 2011 finishes with stunning balance and richness that brings the voice of these old Wente clones front and center. This is the most expressive of the three Chardonnays I tasted.
Pale gold. Intensely perfumed aromas of orange pith, pear and iodine. Lush and weighty, with powerful orchard fruit and spice flavors lifted by a stony element. Tightens up on the back half, with bright mineral and citrus pith notes giving shape and grip to the fruit-driven finish.