2018 Domaine Della Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay [JD96][WE94][JS94][WA93][WS92]

"The vineyard designate, the 2018 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is largely in the same mold, although it was brought up in slightly less new oak (25%) and is just a touch lower in alcohol and higher in acidity. Despite those technical details, it's richer and more opulent (which is why you shouldn't judge a wine by numbers) and offers beautiful stone fruits, toasted brioche, honeysuckle, and white flower aromas and flavors. As with the straight Sonoma, it's pure, medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, and has a great, great finish. This is another stunningly good Chardonnay from this estate to enjoy over the coming 7-8 years." 

"Mineralladen earthiness underlies a richly textured and lengthy expression of ample tropical and stone fruit in this impressive vineyard designate. Baking spice and baked pear complete the cohesive picture of full-bodied power and grace." 

"Hawthorn, ripe-peach, spiced-apple and praline aromas. It’s full-bodied with crisp acidity. Concentrated and flavorful with a dense, phenolic texture. Long and tight." 

"The 2018 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard has layered aromas of baked quince, yellow apples, lemon cream, hazelnuts and honey with touches of baker's yeast. The medium-bodied palate is uber silky and seamlessly fresh, just spreading its wings and gaining amplitude on the long, savory finish. Give it another year or two in bottle."