2013 Foxen Chardonnay Bien Nacido Vineyard Block UU
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Tasting notes
Light yellow-gold. Vibrant, mineral-accented aromas of fresh orchard and pit fruits, lemon pith and ginger, with complicating notes of gingery spices and jasmine. Racy and precise in the mouth, offering taut pear and Meyer lemon flavors that put on weight in the glass. Closes spicy and very long, with lingering citrus and floral notes and very good clarity.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Tasted as a barrel sample, the 2013 Chardonnay Block UU Bien Nacido Vineyard has outstanding potential with its pineapple, citrus, lime peel and seawater-like aromas and flavors flowing nicely to a medium-bodied, focused and racy style on the palate. Barrel-fermented and aged on its lees, it should drink nicely for 4-6 years after release. I was blown away by these new Pinot Noir releases from Foxen, and they’re up near the top of the vintage. Unfortunately, I can’t say the same with regards to the Rhone blends, and these had superficial, mid-weight profiles geared for near-term drinking. As to the Bordeaux blends, these come from the eastern most AVA in Santa Barbara County and are labeled under the Foxen 7200 label. Tel. (805) 937-4251; www.foxenvineyard.com
The 2013 Chardonnay Bien Nacido Vineyard Block UU is gorgeous and also remarkably different from the Tinaquaic. Honey, orange blossom, mint, sage and tropical overtones meld together in an overt, opulent Chardonnay built on pure texture.