JEB DUNNUCK 97 POINTS - "From own-rooted vines planted in 1999, the 2024 Chardonnay is highly textural, coming from the higher reaches of a historic site in deep granite soils, a blend of two distinct blocks. Made with native fermentation without racking, fining, or filtration and aged in 40% new oak over 17 months, it’s a generous, medium-bodied phenolic white that speaks to a purity of orchard fruit, gravelly stone, and wildflowers, integrated in oak and acidity. This beautiful, layered wine will age over many years. Hold and drink 2028-2038."
ANTONIO GALLONI'S VINOUS MEDIA 95 POINTS - "The 2024 Chardonnay has the same palate presence and weight as it typically does, but this time with the notable addition of a grip of tannin that binds to the tongue and cheeks. The blend includes a block of own-rooted Wente clone planted in 1999, with blocks of Montrachet and shot Wente planted in 2011. That makes for quite a dynamic, harmonious combination. White flowers, apricot, bitter spices and white pepper saturate deeply through the intense, strict finish. This is massively complex and utterly delicious. Quite a positive sign for Chardonnay in the Santa Lucia Highlands."
ANTONIO GALLONI'S VINOUS MEDIA 95 POINTS - "The 2024 Chardonnay has the same palate presence and weight as it typically does, but this time with the notable addition of a grip of tannin that binds to the tongue and cheeks. The blend includes a block of own-rooted Wente clone planted in 1999, with blocks of Montrachet and shot Wente planted in 2011. That makes for quite a dynamic, harmonious combination. White flowers, apricot, bitter spices and white pepper saturate deeply through the intense, strict finish. This is massively complex and utterly delicious. Quite a positive sign for Chardonnay in the Santa Lucia Highlands."
