2019 Chardonnay Russian River

An inviting nose of warm citrus, toasted herbs and brown butter. Medium-to full-bodied with a lovely vanilla and cream through-line that brings charm to the palate. Minerality adds layers of complexity and zip, along with some white-pepper spice. Drink or hold. (11/2021)

Leading off the Chardonnay from Paul Hobbs, the 2019 Chardonnay Russian River Valley reveals a light gold hue as well as a classic, cleanly perfumed bouquet of honeyed citrus, crushed stone, white flowers, and brioche, with just a hint of toasted almond emerging with time in the glass. Medium-bodied, fresh, and lively on the palate, it gains more and more minerality as it sits in the glass. It’s flawlessly balanced, with an incredible mix of rich, ripe fruit and racy, bright acidity as well as outstanding length. This white is well worth searching out, and I would rank it with one of the top, base appellation blends in the vintage. (07/2021)