Winemaker Notes The fantastic 2017 growing season yielded an intense and complex expression of Napa Valley Chardonnay, with alluring aromas of nectarine, yellow plum, pineapple upsidedown cake, and sweet spices. On the palate, zesty acidity and an underlying silkiness add depth and nuance, with French oak-inspired hints of vanilla, sweet dough and clove framing the generous fruit.
Critical Acclaim 91 points - Wilfred Wong of Wine.com COMMENTARY: When I first tasted my first vintages of California Chardonnays—vintages 1968 to 1970, I was astounded with the wines' qualities. Historic houses like Heitz, Hanzell, Stony Hill, and others left an indelible mark on my palate. As the California industry grew, Chardonnays got lost a bit. Wineries picked the grapes later and used plenty of oak. My friend and colleague Bob Thompson—one of the world's greatest wine writers—often said, "I wasn't raised to drink a tree." The battle between purity and commercial viability became endless. Fortunately, the 2017 Duckhorn Chardonnay figured it out and produced a wine that hits all of the right points of balance. TASTING NOTES: This wine is generous without sacrificing purity or style. Its aromas and flavors of dried peach, apple, and oak accents are perfectly balanced. Pair it with shellfish in a decadent cream sauce. (Tasted: April 11, 2019, San Francisco, CA)
