2018 axr Chardonnay Napa Valley

Winemaker Notes:  From Winemaker Jean Hoefliger, formely of Alpha Omega, Napa.

Deep, shiny ruby in appearance with touches of magenta and Ferrari red. Beautiful aromatic nose with touches of flowers such as lilac, violet and fruit such as blueberry reduction, cotton candy, rose candy, cassis jelly, apricot jam and watermelon gum. Fresh, fruity entrance, evolving on a aromatic mid-palate lingering on fresh fruit and granular tannins with touches of boysenberries, red currant, pomegranate and grapefruit.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


James Suckling - "Aromas of smoke, jasmine, peach and marmalade on toast. Almond-skin flavors, too. It’s full-bodied and creamy with crisp acidity. Complex layers of toasted nuts and ripe fruit. Elegant. Drink or hold."


Wine Enthusiast - "An impressive white that is balanced between fruit, acidity and oak, this appellation wine offers a creamy, cohesive center that is both pretty and complex. Baking spice elements adorn layers of apple, apricot and Meyer lemon flavor that are rich yet fresh."


Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "The 2018 Chardonnay sails out of the glass with invigorating scents of lemon curd, fresh grapefruit and yuzu with hints of green mango, shaved ginger and peach blossoms. The medium-bodied palate has lovely elegance and restraint, featuring loads of citrus and stone fruit layers and a satiny texture, finishing with a quiet intensity and fantastic freshness."


Jeb Dunnuck - "Lots of stone fruits, brioche, and honeysuckle notes emerge from the 2018 Chardonnay, a solid, nicely balanced Chardonnay with a good mix of both richness and freshness. Opening up nicely with air, this rich, toasty, vibrant effort is ideal for drinking over the coming 2-4 years."