2020 El Diablo Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
My favorite of the whites from Kosta Browne, the 2020 Chardonnay El Diablo Vineyard, it leans toward a darker, smokier profile, with forward aromas of smoky gunflint, salted lemon curd, and ripe green apple. Medium to full-bodied, with good concentration and focus as well as fresh acidity, it displays well-balanced notes of Meyer lemon and ripe pear throughout the palate and has a good amount of salinity on the finish.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
My favorite of the whites from Kosta Browne, the 2020 Chardonnay El Diablo Vineyard, it leans toward a darker, smokier profile, with forward aromas of smoky gunflint, salted lemon curd, and ripe green apple. Medium to full-bodied, with good concentration and focus as well as fresh acidity, it displays well-balanced notes of Meyer lemon and ripe pear throughout the palate and has a good amount of salinity on the finish. Drink 2024-2034.
The 2020 Chardonnay El Diablo was harvested on August 17 and matured in 65% new French oak for 14 months. It's driven by matchstick tones on the nose, plus wafts of toasted meringue and almonds. The medium-bodied palate is textural and slightly grippy, with a somewhat muddled core of fruit and a flinty finish.
A great chardonnay, with such depth and power. Phenolics across the palate that bring you down and anchor you deep in the wine. Full-bodied with lime and lemon peel. Lemon tree, too. Wonderful depth. Superb. Drink or hold.
About the producer
Kosta Browne is one of California's most acclaimed wineries, renowned for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that express the character of top vineyard sites across Sonoma and beyond. Combining meticulous sourcing with thoughtful winemaking, the wines offer richness, precision, and remarkable sense of place.