2022 Ridge Estate Chardonnay Santa Cruz Mountains

Winemaker Notes:  Aromas of pineapple, lemon meringue, pear, brioche, apricot, dried flowers, ginger, flint, and sweet oak. Medium-bodied with a soft entry layered with fruit, acid, oak, and a round, full mouthfeel. The finish is long and clean. Enjoyable upon release and over the next six to seven years.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


James Suckling - "Wonderfully concentrated and full-bodied but somehow light on its feet. The limestone soil and Wente clone vines planted in 1982 help give it an almost dense but elegant feel, with minerals, lime zest, a touch of vanilla bean and chalk. Great balance and lively acidity lead to a long finish. Drink or hold."


Wine Spectator - "Bold and distinctive, with notes of flint, toasted sesame seed and litsea oil adding a savory overtone to the core of ripe stone fruit, pineapple and pear flavors, backed by plenty of fresh acidity. More distinctive notes of beeswax, nutmeg and toasted green tea linger on the finish. Drink now."


Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "The 2022 Chardonnay Estate Monte Bello Vineyard is ripe and forward on the nose, with aromas of white peach, star fruit and fresh lilies. The palate follows this profile, with ample mid-palate richness and a soft spine of acidity on the finish. It is balanced and enjoyable if a bit lacking in vibrant energy to give it life beyond a handful of years in the cellar."